AUGUSTA – Republican Gov. Paul LePage has vetoed a bill that would require lawmakers to sign off on proposals to offer keno in Maine.
Democratic Rep. Louie Luchini introduced the bill in response to the LePage administration’s plan to begin offering keno at retailers like bars and restaurants this spring. Luchini says that keno is a major departure from lottery games currently offered and warrants legislative review.
LePage has since said that he won’t move forward with the keno plan because it’s “not the time to have another debate over gambling.” But lawmakers passed the bill anyway to ensure they have the final say on future keno plans.
LePage said in his veto letter on Monday that lawmakers shouldn’t restrict the State Liquor and Lottery Commission’s ability to develop new games.
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