FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky General Assembly made history Wednesday by overriding Gov. Andy Beshear’s veto of House Bill 551, marking the first major expansion of gambling access in the state since 2021. The Republican-led legislature secured the necessary supermajorities in both chambers, with the Senate voting 25-12 and the House 68-22 to enact the measure immediately.
The legislation authorizes up to nine new horse track-based casinos and establishes a regulatory framework for mobile sports betting. Analysts project the move could generate $150 million annually in tax revenue, with funds earmarked for pension systems and education initiatives. “This represents a thoughtful compromise between economic opportunity and responsible gaming safeguards,” said House Speaker David Osborne in a statement obtained by SourceRated.
Opponents including the Family Foundation of Kentucky argue the bill violates constitutional prohibitions on expanded gambling. Legal challenges are expected within 30 days, according to court officials familiar with preliminary filings. The legislation includes sunset provisions that would terminate licenses if courts block implementation.