Sports Gaming in Delaware?

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State may look into sports gambling
Wagering on football and more called 'alternative to raising taxes'
By MARY ALLEN
Staff reporter
06/21/2002

Delaware may study the potential for introducing sports gambling activities at the state's three gaming venues.

The House of Representatives is reviewing a resolution that would create a task force to research the idea and what economic benefits it could bring to Delaware.

The group would include state Finance Secretary David W. Singleton, state Lottery Director Wayne Lemons and Salvatore DiMario, executive director of the Delaware Standardbred Owners Association Inc.

Delaware is in a unique position because it once allowed wagering on professional football games, officials said. The federal government banned sports betting in the United States in the 1990s, but allowed a grandfather clause that would permit sports gambling in Delaware because of its history here, Lemons said.

Officials said the grandfather clause also included at least two other states, Nevada and Oregon.

Rep. William A. Oberle Jr., R-Beechers Lot, introduced House Resolution 55 this week. It says Pennsylvania's gubernatorial candidates have made the legalization of casino-style gambling part of their platforms. It also says questions are outstanding on the Maryland gubernatorial candidates' positions on gambling.

Given the potential for new competition from those neighboring states, it makes sense to study the potential for sports gambling here, DiMario said.

"It's a great alternative to raising taxes," DiMario said.

House Majority Leader Wayne A. Smith, R-Clair Manor, said he opposes the idea.

"I, on a philosophical basis, have a great problem with Delaware and state government expanding gaming opportunities," Smith said.

Sports gambling could include such things as betting on football and soccer games or other athletics, he said. The group would look at ways to apply the idea.

Lemons said Delaware's attempt at professional football gambling in the 1970s didn't last a full sports season.

"It was not profitable," he said.

Denis McGlynn, president and chief executive officer of the motorsports and gaming companies at Dover Downs, said he thinks the idea is worth studying now. It could be a way for Delaware to set itself apart from other gaming states, and could prove to be a good marketing tool for Delaware.

McGlynn said he would like to be a part of the task force, should the resolution pass.

Rep. Robert F. Gilligan, D-Sherwood Park, the House minority leader, said he thinks the task force should include a broader group of people.

Oberle tabled the resolution Thursday after brief debate on the House floor. He said it could come back for a vote Tuesday.

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