SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — A Republican lawmaker is pushing a plan to allow betting on old races as a way to boost the horse racing industry.

The Springfield bureau of Lee Enterprises newspapers reports state Rep. Dwight Kay introduced a plan allowing so-called “historical racing” machines. The terminals allow people to bet on previously run races that are stripped of identifying markers.

Kentucky and Arkansas allow historical racing. Texas is facing a court fight over the machines.

Kay says the money generated could help tracks while legislators take another look at a statewide gambling expansion.

Previous efforts to expand gambling have failed. Gov. Pat Quinn has twice vetoed plans. Republican Governor-elect Bruce Rauner has said he wouldn’t oppose adding casinos if local communities support it.
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