Lawmakers cool to proposed session on gambling

Monday, Dec. 6, 2004 | 9:03 a.m.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Squeezing in a special legislative session before Christmas may not be the best way to authorize local elections on allowing casino table games at the state's four racetracks, lawmakers said Sunday.

"I simply don't think that there's time left," said House Speaker Bob Kiss, D-Raleigh.

On Friday, Gov. Bob Wise said he could call a special session on putting table games on the ballots of host counties, "but I need to know that the Legislature is willing to take it up."

Senate President Earl Ray Tomblin said Sunday he has talked to Wise administration officials, and "They're not real sure the votes are up here."

"I'm not sure that the votes are here, either, though I haven't taken a count," said Tomblin, D-Logan. "I think it would be tough at this stage, with all the changes going on."

Wise leaves office next month, making way for fellow Democrat and Gov.-elect Joe Manchin. Tomblin also noted that the Legislature swore in 21 new members Sunday, including two delegates that won election to the Senate.

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