Almost every year, it seems, Maine voters can count on seeing new special-interest questions on the state ballot in November.
This year, decisions were sought on spending and taxes, same-sex marriage and medical marijuana. Next year, entrepreneurs are hoping to make a new pitch for a resort casino.
This editorial page has argued against previous gambling propositions. There are many reasons to be wary about opening this door, and although developers may be willing to take a chance, it’s far from certain that the state would come out ahead.
Maine voters in 2003 were persuaded to allow harness tracks to supplement their income by installing a few slot machines ”“ an initiative that opened the door to Hollywood Slots. But otherwise the governor, Legislature and voters have collaborated in keeping Maine free of commercial gaming.
The latest proposal for Maine is still in an early stage. Backers suggest it could raise money for public schools and colleges, dairy farms and Indian tribes. They envision a deluxe resort casino with slot machines and table games in Oxford County.
Whether this proposal moves forward or not, it seems likely that gambling proposals will be a perennial political issue until the gaming boom plays itself out. That day may not be far off.
In the meantime, Maine voters should keep an eye on developments in nearby states. Recent news includes:
”“ Growing momentum for gambling at the Massachusetts statehouse, where the governor and legislative leaders are preparing to sort through more than a dozen bills. According to the Associated Press, pro-gambling groups are spending heavily on lobbying efforts.
”“ A suggestion before the New Hampshire Legislature to open the door quickly to casino gambling in Rockingham County, to gain an advantage on potential Massachusetts competitors.
”“ A Connecticut study of gambling-related problems found them running far above average in metropolitan areas closest to casinos.
The gaming industry hopes to thrive by holding out the opportunity for easy money. But as critics have argued before, gaming does not create many high-quality jobs, and much of the revenue is banked out of state.
And as more casinos open in neighboring states and around the nation, the odds that Maine will hit it big get smaller.
— Questions? Comments? Contact Managing Editor Nick Cowenhoven at nickc@journaltribune.com or City Editor Kristen Schulze Muszynski kristenm@journaltribune.com.
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