Michigan Governor Vetoes Gambling Expansion Bill

LANSING (Associated Press) -- A bill that would have allowed more gambling at Michigan race tracks has died without Gov. Rick Snyder's signature.

Snyder effectively vetoed House Bill 5546 by taking no action. It would have added slot machine-like games at struggling horse tracks in Hazel Park, Mount Pleasant, Swartz Creek and Northville.

Spokesman Caleb Buhs says the bill wasn't signed because it clashes with the state Constitution and is probably illegal. A 2004 amendment requires voter approval for new gambling.

The governor also took no action on a bill that would have given landlords more authority to remove the belongings of a deceased tenant. State Rep. Margaret O'Brien of Portage tells The Detroit News that a change in law is necessary because landlords are forced to go through a long court process.