Lee to let online gambling bill become law without signature

Gov. Bill Lee speaks to the state chapter of the National Federation of Independent Business in Nashville on Feb. 19, 2019. (Erik Schelzig, Tennessee Journal)

Republican Gov. Bill Lee plans to allow a bill to legalize online sports gambling in Tennessee to become law without his signature.

The bill cleared the House on a 58-37 vote last week and the Senate on Thursday passed its own version 19-12. The lower chamber then concurred with Senate changes on a 51-40 vote, sending the bill to Lee’s desk.

“The governor has said he does not believe that the expansion of gambling is best, but he recognizes that many in the legislature found this to be an issue they want to explore further,” said Lee spokeswoman Laine Arnold. “He plans to let this become law without signature.”

Governors have 10 days from receiving a bill to either sign or veto it, or it becomes law without their signature.