The debates leading up to the November ballot will be watched carefully by other states, and a national audience, whose opinions will be heavily influenced by the outcome.
The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court has upheld the state
ballot repeal of casino law. The ruling found unanimously that the
rejection of an anti-casino ballot by state's Attorney General Martha
Coakley last year was erroneous.
First Public Debate on Casinos
Now, a public vote will be permitted on repealing state anti-casino laws in the November elections. A volatile referendum campaign is expected, when the controversial components of the law will be bandied about before the voters decide the ultimate fate of the gambling industry in the state.
Significant funding from lobbying groups and national interest is
expected with the referendum, because other state governments and
populations will likely be influenced by the extent to which
Massachusetts public opinion reflects the general sentiment of the
populace at this point towards the acceptance of gambling, and in
particular online gambling. This is still an early stage for
acceptance of gambling by states in the US.
The Unseen Benefits
Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the American Gaming
Association, fired the first salvo in the PR battle by pointing out
positive benefits of gaming, in the following announcement:
“While it’s up to Massachusetts to decide whether or not to
welcome the thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in revenues
gaming will bring to the Commonwealth, the AGA will ensure that
voters have the facts about our industry instead of tired
stereotypes.
Revitalizing Communities
“Gaming positively affects communities by creating thousands of
jobs paying well above the minimum wage, helping small businesses
grow and contributing millions of dollars in vital revenues for
public services, such as education and safety.”
While there are problem gamblers out there, the industry seeks to
demonstrate that those stigmas are overblown, and shift public
attention towards the added revenue benefits to state government and
local communities.
The Ongoing Moral Dilemma
The most difficult hurdle, however, is likely the moral one, as the anti-casino laws are primarily morally based. Whether the practical benefits as indicated by casino advocates can overcome traditional moral objections lies at the heart of the issue, and the impending PR battle to come.
Tags
Massachusetts
Blackjack
Slots
Roulette
Baccarat
Craps
Poker
