Delaware Racinos May Stay Open 24 Hours

WILMINGTON, Delaware - As reported by the Delaware News Journal: “Gov. Ruth Ann Minner on Thursday played the hand she hopes will let Delaware preserve millions in gambling revenue from neighboring
Slots area in Dover Downs Racino  states.

“Minner's proposal, which aims to strengthen existing casinos with more slot machines and extended hours, could spell the end of developers' hopes for new casinos in Wilmington. But her plan appears to have broad support.

“Owners of the state's three slot machine casinos -- all attached to horse racing tracks -- have agreed to support legislation to be introduced this month. The bill would increase the number of slots allowed in the state's three racetrack casinos by 60 percent and would allow casinos to stay open 24 hours a day, compared with 20 hours now, on all days except Sunday. She hopes to get the bill passed by Jan. 26.

“...If the legislation passes by the end of the month, the state's revenues for the fiscal year ending June 30 would increase by $2.3 million, said Thomas J. Cook, deputy secretary of finance with the state's Department of Finance. Going forward, the increase to state revenues would be $11.4 million a year.

“...Developers who favor legalizing casinos in Wilmington said they are not giving up the fight, but city officials and legislators who had sponsored such a bill said Minner's move has hurt chances for more casinos…"