The Maine House passed a citizen initiative Monday that would allow a racino in Biddeford and a race track with slot machines in Washington County.
The House voted 94-49 against a motion to defeat L.D. 1203, then quickly moved on to pass the bill without another recorded vote. The measure faces more votes in the House and Senate.
A majority of the members of the Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee voted to oppose the bill while it was in committee, preferring instead to send it out to voters for approval. But some House members argued during the debate that lawmakers need to stand up and take a vote on the measure.
“This is economic development,” said Rep. Bruce Bickford, R-Auburn. “Business attracts business. It always has and it always will.”
Democratic Rep. Mark Dion of Portland said voters have already voted to allow gambling in Maine.
“The gaming question has been asked and answered, it’s over,” he said. “The question is can we shape this policy?”
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