Chief Allan, chairman of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, has issued a statement praising the House’s 49-21 vote today to repeal instant racing, while John Sheldon, president of Treasure Valley Racing, operator of Les Bois Park, issued a statement calling it “a very disappointing day for Idaho,” and urging Gov. Butch Otter to veto the bill. Here are both statements:

COEUR D’ALENE TRIBE:

Tribe Praises Legislature for Instant Racing Repeal

For immediate release
March 26, 2015

PLUMMER, IDAHO – Today the Idaho State House of Representatives considered Senate Bill 1011, the bill introduced by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe which would repeal instant racing in Idaho. The bill passed the House by a vote of 49-21.

 

“We commend the Legislature for having the courage to take up this important and contentious issue. We know this was difficult for some with so much riding on the outcome and we appreciate that they took the time to thoroughly examine the matter and separate facts from emotion. Ultimately, I believe Senate Bill 1011 made a statement that the Idaho Legislature will vigorously uphold the Idaho Constitution. To the overwhelming majority of legislators who supported this bill, we applaud you for your leadership,” said Chairman Chief Allan of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe.

 

Idaho’s Tribes have been calling for the repeal of legislation that allowed for pari-mutuel wagering on historical horse races. However, once the instant racing machines were installed across the state, it became clear that the machines were not what was initially described to the Legislature. The chairmen of four of Idaho’s Tribes sent a joint letter to the Governor and Attorney General earlier this year asking that illegal gaming be put to a stop. Community leaders in north Idaho have also sent a joint letter to the Governor and AG asking the same.

 

The bill now goes to Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter’s office where it will await his signature.

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TREASURE VALLEY RACING:

Treasure Valley Racing Response to House Passage of SB1011

This is a very disappointing day for Idaho - not just for the horse industry, but for any organization interested in doing business in this state, and for all Idahoans who believe in due process.

Every legislator who voted for Senate Bill 1011 voted against legal economic growth, against tax paying business owners, against jobs and against due process. We appreciate those Representatives who see the issue for what it really is and debated and voted against Senate Bill 1011.

Both the Senate and the House overwhelmingly ignored proof of the legality and pari-mutuel function of the terminals, and instead voted based on rhetoric, propaganda and outright lies of a special interest group who's only goal is to eliminate gaming competition in the state. 

The fate of an industry, including more than 500 jobs, millions in positive economic impact for the state and the ownership group's right to due process will now be placed solely in the hands of the Governor. We hope the Governor can take a broader look at this entire issue and make the right decision for Idaho. 

- John Sheldon, President of Treasure Valley Racing, operator of Les Bois Park

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