More than 2 percent of adult Oregonians are estimated to be problem gamblers. Seventy-four percent of people in the state's free treatment program (877-2STOPNOW) say video poker is their primary gambling activity, followed by slot machines, at 10 percent. Twenty-four percent of those coming for treatment report being divorced, separated or having lost a significant relationship owing to their gambling. Fifteen percent say they lost a job as result of gambling. Forty percent admit committing illegal acts as a result of their gambling.

Potentially adding to these problems, the state is considering putting electronic line games, or video slots, on its menu even though a research report (www.lifespan.org/services/mentalhealth/rih/Gambling/Research/) calls video slots "the most addictive form of gambling in history."

Slot machines are in fewer than 10 Oregon tribal casinos. Video poker is in 1,800 bars and taverns. If the state adds electronic slots to its video poker sites, gambling addiction will soar.

Legislators who pursue lottery revenue but ignore prevention and treatment of gambling addiction should be regarded as no better than drug dealers. Voters ought to regard them as unindicted co-conspirators who foster bankruptcies, divorce and suicide.

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