Could Casino style slot machines cure Kentucky’s billion dollar budget problems. On Monday, Kentucky lawmakers will debate the controversial plan in a special session.

In the state of Kentucky the horses are more than a hobby. They’re one of the bluegrass state’s economic engines.

For local race enthusiasts, Kentucky Downs race track in Franklin is a popular destination.

“It’s a stakes race. It’s a Stephen Foster. And it’s a $500,000 race,” said Kentucky Downs visitor, Doug Shank.

Here Doug Shank can place bets on horse races across the country. If Kentucky’s governor has his way, Doug would also be able to play slot machines at Kentucky Downs or any of the state’s horse tracks.

“It’s a crisis point in terms of racing,” said Kentucky Downs Owner, Ray Reid.

Kentucky Downs owner Ray Reid says the horse capital of the world will lose its title if something isn’t done soon. Reid says neighboring states that already have casino style gaming in horse racing facilities are taking Kentucky’s business, but the horse industry won’t be the only benefactor.

“And if we get gaming, the legislation will have a portion of that being paid to the state, which the state will use for education, Medicare, and different things like that,” said Reid.

In Downtown Franklin at least one restaurant owner thinks the economic impact is well worth whatever criticism would follow.

“That it brings revenue to the county, cities and the state wherever it goes. It brings employment,” said business owner John Fleming.

For now those for or against slot machines will have to wait and see what Kentucky lawmakers decide.

The slot machine debate has been brewing for some 15 years in Kentucky. This year supporters are feeling much more confident. The equine industry and Kentucky’s economy are both in bad shape. Because of that, slot machine supporters say lawmakers have very few other choices to try and bring money into the state.

Kentucky’s governor says the gambling plan will raise $360-million in upfront licensing fees alone. If the plan passes, the owner of Kentucky Downs says he would hire up to 400 additional employees.