Horse track challenges anti-gambling ballot initiative

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — A horse track is challenging a proposed November ballot initiative that would require voters to approve new gambling in Michigan. The Hazel Park Harness Raceway in suburban Detroit filed a complaint Tuesday with the state Bureau of Elections. The deadline to challenge signatures submitted for the proposed constitutional amendment was Wednesday. The Board of State Canvassers will consider that challenge and other issues on Monday. Supporters of the petition said Wednesday the move is an attempt to deny voters their right to vote. Let Voters Decide — YES! submitted more than 500,000 signatures. At least 317,757 valid signatures are needed to get the initiative on the November ballot. The racing industry supports a bill to allow horse tracks to install slot machines and other gambling devices to give a financial boost to agriculture interests.