COLUMBUS — The odds are against video slot machines being put at Ohio horse racing tracks anytime soon.

        A resolution calling for a statewide referendum on the proposal died in the Senate Ways and Means Committee on Tuesday.

        Its sponsor, committee Chairman Louis Blessing, a Colerain Township Republican, decided not to call for a vote on the measure because of lack of support among panel members.

        Mr. Blessing also faced an amendment by Sen. Jim Jordan, R-Urbana, a gambling opponent who wanted to put not just video terminals, but the entire existence of the Ohio Lottery, to a statewide vote.

        “I think, realistically, it's dead, unless the Ohio Supreme Court tells us we need more money for schools,” Mr. Blessing said.

        Not voting on Tuesday allows the committee to revisit the resolution.

        Supporters of the measure said if 1,500 terminals were placed at the racetracks, between $700 million and $800 million could be generated over two years.

        Opponents said putting video lottery terminals at the racetracks ultimately would create casinos, something voters have rejected twice.

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