ATLANTA - A House panel has approved legislation that could pave the way for pari-mutuel betting on horse racing in Georgia.

The constitutional amendment would allow voters in local communities to decide whether to allow gambling on horse racing.

The measure from state Rep. Harry Geisinger, of Roswell, would allow the betting proceeds to be used to pay for college scholarships, pre-K programs or trauma care.

The bill cleared the House Regulated Industries Committee on Wednesday and now heads to the House Rules Committee, which will decide if it makes it a House vote. It would need a two-thirds supermajority.

House Speaker David Ralston has said it would be premature to approve horse racing legislation without having an informed discussion with the public.