CasinoFreePA OPPOSES CASINOS OF ANY SIZE, FOR ANY PURPOSE ANYWHERE IN PENNAYLVANIA!
The way that gambling legislation is passed, the lack of opportunities for public input and gambling promoted rather than independent studies are evidence of the lack of consideration of the negative impact on Pennsylvania’s citizens.
Legalizing something harmful never eliminates the harm. It just changes the legal consequences and usually for those who produce, promote and in other ways profit financially from the “legalized” substance or activity with very little to no regard for the negative impact on society-at-large.
The radio interview on WDAC’s Spotlight program focuses on online gambling with other types of gambling mentioned. Listen to Dianne Berlin’s interview at: www.wdac.com listed under the WDAC blog “Spotlight: May 4, 2013.” It will be online for a short time.
The recent move to privatize the management of the PA Lottery, if carried out, would have massive impact on people, communities and socio-economic costs. Both online gambling and Keno were a part of the original agreement. The Governor is expected to submit another version. A bill to legalize online gambling in PA has been introduced. HB 1404 banning online gambling has been introduced by Rep. Paul Clymer. Please thank the co-sponsors and ask your representative to sign on.
Online gambling would create casinos in any home, school, business, etc. that has Internet access including smart phones. The National Gambling Impact Study Commission wisely advised a complete ban on online gambling. See this recent article from Australia re teens, gaming and gambling.
Keno which is a rapid numbers game would be allowed in bars and taverns. Under the privatization plan for PA’s State Store system, there would be even more alcohol outlets and possible gambling venues. To see the existing alcohol licenses in the Commonwealth by county, go to: http://www.lcbapps.lcb.state.pa.us/ (This listing does not included State Stores.)
*** READ Paul Carpenter’s column about the minimum $75,000 fine for any theft from a casino even for the $200 in chips stolen by a dealer at the Rivers. Carpenter points to the way that the PA Gaming Control Board treats casinos for their violations in comparison.