Politics & Government

Prince George's Casino Bill May be Heading for Key Vote

Controversial bill could see budget panel vote next week.

A bill that would lead to the legalization of gambling in Prince George’s County may be headed for a key budget panel vote next week in the state Senate, according to reports.

Meanwhile, the legislation is currently working its way through a House committee, where a hearing on the bill is scheduled for Friday, according to The Washington Post.

Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker has been advocating for a casino to be built at National Harbor in Oxon Hill, while officials at the nearby Rosecroft Raceway have been calling for a casino to be built at their location.

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The news comes as. Baker has said that revenues generated from a casino could help expand the county’s commercial tax base and bring in 5,000 jobs.

Still, the legislation is facing an uphill battle.  Last month, the county council gave a thumbs-down vote to a proposed gambling bill in the General Assembly. Council members swhat revenues generated by slots would go to the county.

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Business owners are also critical of the bill, including the developer behind a casino in Anne Arundel County that is expected to open in June.

Baker will be on hand for Friday's  hearing before the House Ways and Means Committee.


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