While the House of Representatives Tuesday upheld the governor’s veto of a bill calling for a statewide referendum to allow an Indian-run racino in Washington County, legislators will try to introduce another proposal calling for a county-wide referendum in June to allow the same thing.
Democrats caucused on the proposal prior to the override vote. While details were slim, members confirmed that a resolution would be introduced on Thursday to allow a bill into this session that calls for a referendum just in Washington County this June.
Rep. Frederick Moore of the Passamaquoddy Tribe said it was premature to discuss any of the details, but negotiations were going on with House leadership from both parties.
“This is not a negotiation with the governor’s office. This is a legislative solution,” Moore said.
A spokesperson for Gov. John Baldacci said the governor was pleased his veto had been upheld, but had no comment on any new legislation regarding the Washington County racino.
“It’s the second time the Legislature has sustained his veto,” said spokesperson, Crystal Canney. “The rest of it speaks for itself.”
Relations with the governor’s office and the tribes have been strained since Baldacci twice vetoed racino bills for Washington County that passed the Legislature. The first would have allowed a racino without voter approval and the second, which Baldacci only vetoed last Friday, would have sent the racino question out to all state voters. Baldacci waited until the last possible day to veto that bill, which passed the Legislature with wide margins last session.
The House upheld his veto 77 to 63, but there was an understanding among Democratic legislators that if the veto was upheld an alternative bill would be introduced.
State Rep. Hannah Pingree, D-North Haven, said she feels it’s not fair to allow slots in Bangor but not in Washington County.
“We should repeal it all or let Washington County have one,” she said.
The Passamaquoddy Tribe already is circulating a petition to put the racino on the November ballot and members claim to have 40,000 to 50,000 of the needed 51,519 signatures. Petitions are due to the Secretary of State’s office on Jan. 30.
“The issue is: will it go before the voters sooner, or later,” Moore said.
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