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Officials Discuss Growing Dependence On Gambling

PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island – As reported by the Associated Press: "For Rhode Island and many other states, there's no turning back from legalized gambling.

"In states that have so far resisted gambling's lure, worsening budget woes only increase the debate.

"Legislators, regulators and gaming interests from around the country will meet in Newport this weekend to discuss the myriad issues surrounding legalized gambling. They include tribal-state relations, the growth of video-lottery terminals, casino legislation and federal efforts to minimize the spread of Internet gambling.

"…Rhode Island could serve as a case study for the eight-year-old council, which has members from 12 states.

"In 1992 gambling money made up just 1.4 percent of Rhode Island's general budget and was the 13th largest source of revenue. This fiscal year, the budget counts on $302 million in gaming revenue -- nearly 11 percent of general revenue.

"…Gambling revenue has helped Rhode Island avert deep cuts in government services, though some worry the state may be too reliant on gambling.

"…Tom Grey, executive director of the Illinois-based National Coalition Against Legalized Gambling, will argue `the bloom is off the rose' on gaming.

"…Proponents say so much interest shows states are increasingly turning to gambling.

"…Council members expect to vote on a list of things lawmakers should consider when negotiating gaming compacts with Indian tribes. There are 217 tribes running 342 gaming operations in 28 states, according to the coun

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