Connecticut State Legislator Raises Concerns Over Gambling Expansion
Connecticut State Rep. Tony Hwang has questioned a proposal from a legislative task force which recommends that the General Assembly expands off-track betting properties to include slot machines and video poker.
“Unfortunately, the gambling money train is now on the legislative fast track. With the passage of keno in the wee hours of the night without any public input, we are now faced with another attempt to expand gambling in Connecticut, along with the possibility of online gambling,” Hwang told the Fairfield-Sun. “We need to stop this expansion which has many untold and unintended societal consequences, there needs to be an engaged public debate on this matter."
The state currently offers off-track betting at a dozen different locations, including the capital city of Hartford, and two Native American-operated casinos in New London County; Foxwoods Resort Casino, and Mohegan Sun.
Revenue at Foxwoods declined 15% in December when compared to 2012, and 8% at Mohegan Sun.
“I reject the notion Connecticut must increase its gaming opportunities because we as a state are collecting less revenue from the two existing casinos, and believe the economic prosperity promised by gambling may never be realized and may leave a trail of shattered lives of addiction and despair.” Hwang added.
Photo courtesy of TonyHwang.org
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