The first is sovereignty and the second has to do with tribal experience with gaming. In a House committee Thursday, Stephenson explained why he thinks it’s important that sports betting be a partnership with the tribes. Zach Stephenson introduced a similar bill last year giving no consideration to the state’s horse racetracks. The Minnesota House passed sports betting legislation last year giving exclusivity to tribes.

Chamberlain lost his re-election bid in November. Roger Chamberlain pushed for the state’s two horse racing tracks to get Minnesota sports betting licenses. The Senate support for tribal exclusivity over sports wagering is a significant departure from last year. Members, I believe we know that this bill is a work in progress, but one principle which is not open for amendment or discussion is tribal exclusivity over these wagering licenses.” “Protecting that exclusive right to gaming as it expands into new areas is essential to continuing that work in the state of Minnesota. Matt Klein explained that one of the main reasons he introduced SF 1949 was historical justice in regard to the state’s Indian tribes. However, lawmakers are seeking a compromise that will allow racetracks to benefit from the expansion of gaming.īoth the House and Senate held hearings on sports betting legislation Thursday. Minnesota lawmakers made it clear Thursday that the state’s horse racetracks will not get Minnesota sports betting licenses.

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