Michigan House Approves Bill for Racing

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The Michigan House has approved a bill that would restore some funding for the state's horse racing programs.

The bill passed Thursday by a 105-1 vote and now goes to the Senate. The legislation is considered necessary to keep live horse races running in Michigan after Nov. 5.

The legislation would restore $2.5 million to the Office of Racing Commissioner. The money would come from a tax on simulcast race wagering at horse tracks.

That is the funding source originally sought by Gov. Jennifer Granholm. The governor earlier this month vetoed funding for the racing office because lawmakers instead voted to take the cash from a licensing fee paid annually by Detroit casinos.

Granholm supports the changes made in the new bill, which also would restore some prize money.

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