COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Gov. Ted Strickland continues to defend his gambling proposal as a way to balance the state's budget and says Ohio is in company with many other states struggling with financial problems.
The Democrat said Thursday that negotiations with legislators continue. He and the Republican-led Senate have been at loggerheads over the proposal that would authorize slots-like video lottery terminals at the state's seven horse racing tracks.
The plan is estimated to raise $933 million toward the state's $3.2 billion projected deficit.
Strickland says he told lawmakers that the only other options are cuts or tax increases.
He did not directly rule out authorizing slots with executive order that would not need legislative approval.
"I am not seeking political cover," Strickland said. "Ohio demands legislative action for non-ticketed games."
Strickland said it was clear to him that he cannot sign the budget without legislative action ... that it would be illegal.
He said the licensing fee would be $65 million, made in four installments.
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