Account-wagering bill signed in Louisiana

A bill that allows Delta Downs, Evangeline Downs, and Louisiana Downs to operate account-wagering operations has been signed by Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal and will be effective Aug. 15. Fair Grounds has had for several years an account-wagering business in place by virtue of past legislation in the state.

The bill passed this session is a simple one, allowing all tracks licensed by the Louisiana Racing Commission to conduct account wagering via phone or online betting. The past legislation had restricted account wagering to a licensed facility in New Orleans.

The account wagering bill this session was signed by Gov. Jindal on Wednesday. It was authored in part by Rep. Ledricka Thierry of Opelousas, La., the site of Evangeline Downs.