Windsor West MP Brian Masse isn't discouraged the Liberals won't support his single-event sports betting bill.
The first time through the House of Commons, Bill C-290 passed with all-party support. This time, it appears the bill could be in for a bumpy ride since the governing party has told members there won't be a free vote on it after all.
That doesn't faze Masse.
"If I had to rely on Liberal votes, I probably would get nothing done in Parliament because the fact of the matter is, it's always been a moving target," he says.
In addition to the support of his own party, Masse says many Conservatives support it. He also says the provinces have expressed support for the bill that could divert billions of dollars away from organized crime and off-shore betting into provincial coffers.
"This is annual revenue that would go to healthcare, education, a number of things that could assist provinces and Canadians," says Masse.
The Canadian Gaming Association and Canadian Labour Congress both say it'll create jobs and ensure the competitiveness of Caesars Windsor as more jurisdictions in the U.S. consider their own legislation.
Masse says his efforts now will focus on getting those who support single-event sports betting to speak out.
The bill goes for a second hour of debate in June. The second reading vote will follow.
