Idaho tribes ask state to put a stop to 'instant racing' machines

Wednesday, January 7, 2015

A row of historical horse racing machines at Les Bois Park in Idaho. Photo from Facebook

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The leaders of Idaho's four tribes are asking the state to shut down "instant racing" machines that are being offered at non-Indian facilities.

In 2013, lawmakers authorized betting on previously-run, or historical, horse races. The tribes, however, say the machines that are being offered make a mockery of state law.

"The fact of the matter is the citizens of Idaho have been victim to a classic 'bait and switch," the letter states. "Instant Racing machines must be stopped."

The machines have been installed in at least three non-Indian facilities. The website of the Les Bois Park boasts "historical racing" every day from 10am to 2am.

The letter was signed by the leaders of the Coeur d'Alene Tribe, the Kootenai Tribe, the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes and the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes.

Get the Story:
Tribes Ask Idaho To Outlaw Instant Racing Machines (Boise Public Radio 1/7)
Idaho tribes seek halt to ‘instant racing’ betting machines (The Spokesman Review 1/7)
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Coeur d'Alene Tribe can't offer poker games pending appeal (09/22)