Beshear Hopes to Pass Gambling in Next Session

Governor Steve Beshear says it's "too early to speculate" on whether the departure of Senate President David Williams will improve the chances of getting the Legislature to pass a constitutional amendment to legalize casino gambling.

Williams, an opponent of casino gambling, is resigning later this week to become a circuit judge in southern Kentucky.

Beshear told reporters Wednesday that he's hopeful lawmakers may approve a constitutional amendment after the Legislature convenes in January.

If lawmakers approved a constitutional amendment during the next session, Beshear said it would then be placed on the ballot in 2014 for voters to ratify or reject.