Legislative battle brewing over gambling, again

AUSTIN A state lawmaker says he's drafted a letter urging lawmakers to oppose legalizing video lottery terminals in Texas. Representative Charlie Howard, a Republican from Sugar Land, says gathering lawmakers' signatures on the letter may be one strategy to defeat gambling proposals a second time. During the last special session, Howard circulated a similar letter in the House that garnered significant support. A proposal to allow video slot machines at dog and horse race tracks to help fund the state's 30 (B) billion dollar education system failed in the House. It's estimated the machines could produce as much as one-point-two (B) billion dollars for the state. Republican Governor Rick Perry says he would support video lottery terminals as a method to limit gambling in Texas. Copyright 2005 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.