Democratic gubernatorial candidate Andy Beshear has formally announced his support for expanded gaming in Kentucky, including sports betting and casinos.
A statement from the Beshear campaign says new gaming opportunities will include legalizing casinos, capitalizing on fantasy sports, sports betting, and preparing for online poker.
Beshear says his administration would propose directing 100 percent of all tax revenues from expanded gaming to fund the pension systems.
Governor Matt Bevin, who is seeking a second term, has opposed expanded gaming as a way to address the pension woes, saying the negative social impacts would outweigh any benefits.
Beshear says his administration would work “closely with nonprofits and other resources that exist to help people experiencing addiction.”
Casino gaming and sports betting would take action from the Kentucky General Assembly to become a reality, no matter who wins the governor’s election.