An amendment to a bill that passed both houses of Minnesota’s state legislature last week may benefit both the Canterbury Park horsemen and the state’s Indian gambling interests if Minnesota’s Governor, Mark Dayton, signs off on it.  The amendment passed the state’s Senate by a vote of 44-18 and Minnesota’s House of Representatives by a vote of 97-34.

If Dayton approves the measure, both Shakopee’s Canterbury Park and the Running Aces Harness Park in Columbus will be able to increase the number of tables they have in their respective card rooms to 80 apiece.  The amendment would also increase the limit on individual poker bets to $100.  Canterbury Park and the Running Aces Harness Park would also be able to offer certain card games, including Blackjack, that allow players to play against both the house as well as other gamblers.

According to state Senator Claire Robling, the Republican who brought the amendment to the Senate floor, the measure would also enable tribal Indians to show horse races held at Canterbury and other racing facilities at their establishments and to give their guests the opportunity to bet on the outcomes of the horse races.  Robling stated, “This would set up a framework for racetracks and tribes to enter into an agreement on simulcasting.”

Despite attempts to pass a constitutional amendment that would have legalized off-track betting in 1994, however, Minnesota still does not allow off-track betting within its boundaries.