HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) The president of the Connecticut Lottery Corporation says keno can be up and running in six months, if lawmakers ultimately agree to pass legislation authorizing the gambling game.

Anne Noble said the quasi-public agency already has ``the expertise, infrastructure and vendor relationships in place'' to launch keno.

The legislature's Finance Revenue and Bonding Committee held a public hearing Wednesday on a bill allowing the lottery to offer keno. It's similar to legislation scrapped last year after lawmakers had second thoughts about allowing the game.

While Noble said keno would help the lottery diversity its portfolio and protect its revenue stream to the state, some lawmakers voiced continued concern with the legislation.

Sen. Tony Hwang, whose district includes Newtown, said he's worried about the impact on families by allowing the game in bars and restaurants.