Saturday, March 25, 2006

Gambling and prostitution are the oldest of human activities. Though they are both considered victimless crimes, most communities in the United States have long resisted legalizing either. But that attitude is softening. The legal gambling is on the rise. Increasingly, state and local governments are turning to legalized gaming as an alternative source for revenue. The rising between expenses and entrenched voter-resistance to tax increases, local elected officials are sponsoring games of chance. To gain the voter approval, gambling supporters make promises that appeal to a broad base of constituents. Lottery revenues it support programs for senior citizens. A portion of the revenue is funneled into the state educational fund. In gaming activity supports the environmental trust fund. In every instance, gambling interests trade the promise of tax revenue and employment opportunities for the right to locate their establishments at the commercial heart of the community. Read further...