A bill allowing casinos in five areas of the state and slot machines at race tracks wins a Senate committee's endorsement.

It's the first significant legislative action on gambling this year.

Republican leaders had said the measure would stay in committee unless supporters could demonstrate it would pass the Senate. But today, they weren't sure their chamber would even debate the measure this year.

The proposal was dubbed "Slots for Tots,'' because the state's share of revenue from the new gambling, 78 percent, would go to education. Supporters estimate it would generate $150 million in the fiscal year beginning July 1.

The bill would permit casinos in the Dodge City, Junction City, Kansas City, Pittsburg and Wichita areas. Local voters would have to approve first.