Minnesota Senator Karin Housley has introduced a sports betting plan that aims to boost the revenue of horse racing tracks in the state. The plan, which was introduced in February 2021, would allow sports betting at the state’s two horse racing tracks, Canterbury Park and Running Aces.

The plan would also allow for online sports betting, which would be regulated by the Minnesota Racing Commission. The commission would be responsible for issuing licenses to sports betting operators and ensuring that they comply with state regulations.

Housley’s plan is aimed at helping the struggling horse racing industry in Minnesota. Horse racing has been in decline in the state for several years, with attendance and revenue both falling. The introduction of sports betting could provide a much-needed boost to the industry.

Under the plan, a portion of the revenue generated from sports betting would be used to support the horse racing industry. This would include funding for purses, which are the cash prizes awarded to winning horses, as well as funding for track improvements and other expenses.

The plan has received support from both the horse racing industry and the sports betting industry. Canterbury Park CEO Randy Sampson has said that sports betting could help attract a younger audience to horse racing, while also providing a new source of revenue for the industry.

The sports betting industry has also expressed support for the plan. DraftKings, one of the largest sports betting operators in the United States, has said that it would be interested in applying for a license to operate in Minnesota if the plan is approved.

Housley’s plan faces some opposition, however. Some lawmakers are concerned about the potential negative effects of sports betting, such as problem gambling and addiction. Others are concerned about the impact that sports betting could have on other forms of gambling in the state, such as the lottery and tribal casinos.

Despite these concerns, Housley remains optimistic about the plan’s chances of success. She has said that sports betting could provide a much-needed boost to the horse racing industry, while also generating revenue for the state.

Overall, Housley’s sports betting plan represents an innovative approach to supporting the struggling horse racing industry in Minnesota. If approved, it could provide a much-needed boost to the industry, while also generating revenue for the state and providing a new form of entertainment for sports fans.