Frankfort, Ky. - Continuing his effort to spur discussion of the issue, Governor Paul Patton today put out a request for experts to study the economic and social impact of expanded gaming in Kentucky.

"I’m not endorsing the issue one way or the other," Governor Patton said. "It’s been argued that we’re losing a lot of revenue to bordering states, money that could be put to good use here in Kentucky. It’s also been pointed out that an effort to recover that money for our own people through expanded gaming here could have an adverse effect socially. But it’s all based on speculation. Getting the experts to objectively study the issue is the best way to determine what course of action, if any, we should take."

The Cabinet For Finance and Administration today issued a Request For Proposal (RFP) to 15 consulting firms around the country seeking proposals for a three-phase study. Phase I would look at the impact of border gaming on Kentucky’s economy, particularly on horse racing and the thoroughbred industry. Phase II would study the economic impact of expanded gaming in the Commonwealth, from video lottery terminals at race tracks to land based casinos. Phase III would research the social impact and costs of the current gambling environment and project the impact of expanded gambling, from law enforcement and criminal activity to personal bankruptcies.

Proposals and their associated costs are due to the Finance and Administration Cabinet for evaluation by July 16. Responses will be evaluated and a decision to proceed with the project should occur by August 1^st. A final report will be due to the state on December 1^st .