June 23, 2010

OTB BILL BECOMES LAW SAVING WINDHAM JOBS

State Representative Susan Johnson announced that legislation that will allow off track betting (OTB) and TV simulcasting at three restaurants was re-passed by the Connecticut General Assembly as legislators overrode Gov. M. Jodi Rell's recent veto.

“This will help a Windham business grow and create jobs,” said Johnson. “It will also provide our town's tax rolls with a much-needed financial boost during these difficult economic times.”

The legislation permits Windham's Thirsty Frog, along with restaurants in New London and Manchester, to begin simulcasting OTB events like horse racing.

Johnson explained that she worked with legislative leaders to ensure that the bill (House Bill 236) was reintroduced to the legislature for a vote.

“I was outraged that the governor chose to kill a bill that is anticipated to create 19 jobs in Windham alone, but I immediately got to work to make sure that we had enough votes to override the veto,” said Johnson.

The bill passed both chambers of the legislature with more than the two-thirds of votes needed to override the veto. The House passed the bill 110 to 28, and passed the Senate 26 to 10.