Earlier today House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo outlined his plan to introduce a bill allowing two resort style casinos as well as limited slot machines at race tracks in Massachusetts. This is similar, but at least not yet quite as heated, debate that is happening currently in the South. Alabama is trying to legalize electronic bingo and casinos to hopefully recoup some of the money lost to neighboring lottery and casino friendly states.
Proponents of legalized gambling cite loss of income to neighboring states, job creation, and a way to finance better school system through taxation of these cash cows.
Those who are against legalized gambling mostly refer to the moral reasons for keeping casinos out as well as how casinos can tempt low income residents to spend the little money they have in a way that many consider irresponsible.
The Boston Globe has reported on Deleo’s bid to legalize slot machines and casinos. The Globe also mentions Governor Patrick’s lack of a stance as he is up for reelection and many of his supporters oppose the idea of legalized gambling.
What do you think? Can legalized gambling help with the aptly dubbed “blue collar depression”? Are the moral sacrifices worth the potential job creation and greatly increased revenue to the state? Let us know!
Tags: Casinos, Depression, Gambling, Job Creation, Jobs, Stimulate Economy