Eaton Supports Video Poker At Racetracks

Senator Says Revenue Could Lower Deficit

CONCORD, N.H. -- Senate President Tom Eaton said on Monday that he supports legalizing video poker at New Hampshire's four racetracks.

Eaton said he also would consider expanding gambling in the future to include the state's grand hotels. Eaton said state Sen. Lou D'Allesandro -- a Manchester Democrat -- is working on a gambling bill. D'Allesandro estimates that putting state-operated video poker machines at the four tracks will raise $200 million a year for the state.

D'Allesandro has tried unsuccessfully to pass the bill, but the composition of the House and Senate has changed since his last attempt. Eaton said he doesn't know if gambling will fare better this time, but there are not many other alternatives to raise money to help pay for spending in the next state budget. Gov.-elect John Lynch said the state faces a $300 million revenue shortfall if it continues all the existing programs at their same levels. He's also said he would have to be persuaded that expanding gambling is the right thing for New Hampshire. Copyright 2005 by The Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.