The Maine Legal and Veterans Affairs Committee voted 9 to 1 on Wednesday in favor of a bill to allow the Passamaquoddy Tribe to operate a racetrack with slot machines.

The tribe turned to the "racino" plan after voters last November rejected a full-scale tribal casino. At the same time, voters approved slot machines at two existing racetracks.

Gov. John Baldacci (D) said he opposes the expansion of gaming but hasn't stated his position on the tribe's bill.

Get the Story:
Panel backs tribal racino (The Portland Press Herald 5/5)
Gambling opponents dealt blow (The Bangor Daily News 5/5)