SEARCH NEWS:

 

Maryland Gambling Opponents Dismayed by Study Panel

MARYLAND – As reported by the Baltimore Sun: "When a slot machine bill backed by Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. was rejected this year to give lawmakers time to study the issue more carefully, Barbara Knickelbein couldn't have been happier.

"But the anti-gambling activist's delight has turned to dismay.

"She and other gambling opponents say the state legislative study panel appears to be focused on where to put slot machines -- not whether it makes sense for Maryland to legalize them.

"…The criticism comes as the House Ways and Means Committee -- ordered to study expanded gambling in the state and report back when the General Assembly reconvenes in January -- is in the midst of holding a series of site visits and hearings around the state.

"Opponents, however, are wary of the itinerary, which is taking the committee to a variety of racetracks and other potential sites for slots emporiums or full casinos.

"Knickelbein questioned why the committee hasn't invited academic experts and economists to talk about the social and economic costs of gambling in the form of increased crime, gambling addiction, bankruptcies and other social ills.

"…Knickelbein's complaint was echoed by Tom Hucker, executive director of Progressive Maryland, which represents several churches, labor unions and community groups.

"…House Speaker Michael E. Busch, an Anne Arundel County Democrat, said the panel's charge is to look at alternatives that would be better for the state than the slots proposal offered early this year…"

< Gaming News