By Brenna Angel/KPR
Franklin, KY – The Family Foundation says Kentucky Downs in Franklin is violating the state's gambling laws by moving forward with instant racing, which allows players to bet on previously run horse races using a video terminal that looks like a slot machine. Family Foundation executive director Kent Ostrander thinks the crime should be bumped from a misdemeanor to a felony. He says,
"In order to make it more painful for them, the penalty for violating these laws should simply be raised by the legislature. And as you notice, the legislature has been entirely left out of this decision making process."
But Kentucky Downs believes instant racing is legal, because it follows Kentucky Horse Racing Commission regulations that were upheld by a Franklin Circuit Court Judge. The Family Foundation has appealed that ruling. While they wait for a decision, Ostrander says his group will seek state lawmakers to sponsor a bill making the violation of gambling laws a Class D Felony.