When lawmakers reconvene at the State Capitol in January they’ll revisit legislation filed last year concerning horse racing and pari-mutuel betting. Proponents say it could bring millions of dollars in revenue. Opponents worry it will open the door for casino gambling.

Supporters also say it will create 10,000 jobs within five years. House Resolution 186 went back to committee last year for further study. It proposes a constitutional amendment allowing voters to decide if they want horse racing where they live.

Its sponsor, State Representative Harry Geisinger of Roswell, says proceeds would fund education and trauma care.

“The important thing about horse racing in Georgia would be one, it’s all private sector money, and two, it would generate thousands of jobs.”

Geisinger says support for racing is growing among lawmakers. Approval would require a two-thirds majority vote in the state House and Senate.

Tags: Horse Racing, HR 186, pari-mutuel betting