While many legislators at the Minnesota Capitol are expected to push for non-tribal casinos, a bill that will be introduced in the state Senate tomorrow would increase awareness on the pitfalls of gambling.

The bipartisan bill and it’s companion in the House would appropriate $450,000 in the next two years for increased education, training and public awareness on compulsive gambling. The money in the bill would come from the lottery prize fund and go to the Gambling Control Board.

Increased research on the problems of compulsive gambling and more resources for support groups are also included in the bill.

Meanwhile, a political showdown is expected in the coming weeks at the Capitol surrounding the removal of a ban on non-tribal casinos. Republicans are likely to support the creation of state-run casinos to increase revenue, while many DFLers and tribal organizations will fight proposals.

Gov. Mark Dayton has said he would support a state-run casino in the Twin Cities.

–By Mike Zittlow