Teachers union board could weigh-in on slots

ANNAPOLIS, MD – (AP) The state teachers union board could take a vote today on whether to support a November referendum that would legalize slot machines.

An endorsement could be a boost for slots supporters, who believe slots could assure the state's long-term ability to fund education and other priorities.

Senate President Thomas Mike Miller has told leaders of the union that they should support the referendum or expect sharp cuts to education funding. Miller denies it's a scare tactic.

Comptroller Peter Franchot, however, opposes slots and has told the union's board members that the state's budget problems are temporary and instead favors enhanced tax enforcement.