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The statistics are sobering
In communities that permit Class III
casino gambling,
such as Las Vegas-style slot machines, blackjack card games and even roulette or craps, the crime rate is nearly twice the national average. October 2, 2007 Statistics show crime rate will rise By Special to the Times-Union As the Indian gaming debate simmers in Florida, there are significant issues to consider about expanding casino gambling throughout the state. With Las Vegas-style gambling prospects, citizens are raising concerns about public safety and consumer protection, and I share those concerns. The statistics are sobering. In communities that permit Class III casino gambling, such as Las Vegas-style slot machines, blackjack card games and even roulette or craps, the crime rate is nearly twice the national average. Additionally, statistics show that illegal gambling is significantly more prevalent in states that have opened the door to legalized gambling. A recent study found more than two-thirds of compulsive gamblers had engaged in criminal activity, including violent crimes, because of a gambling problem. The potential for revenue enhancement has been cited as an appealing benefit to the expansion of gambling, but Floridians should consider the cost of doing so. For every dollar gambling would bring in, research shows three more dollars are spent on increased social costs for criminal justice and social welfare. In addition to the public safety concerns, Floridians should consider the impact widespread casino gambling would have on one of our most valuable commodities - family-friendly tourism. Families come to Florida from all over the world to experience our beaches and attractions from the Panhandle to the Keys. Wider legalized casino gambling in our state would drastically change the nature of Florida's tourism market. It could give many parents second thoughts about bringing their children to our state for a family vacation. The addictive nature of gambling, particularly "convenience gambling" found with Las Vegas-style games, is the most troubling issue in the debate on expanded gaming in Florida. According to the National Council on Problem Gaming, 18- to 24-year-olds show the highest rate of gambling addiction. Gamblers Anonymous estimates that there are more than 12 million compulsive gamblers in the United States. The average compulsive gambler is more than $80,000 in debt. Given the highly addictive force, the propensity for criminal activities and the possible adverse effects on our tourism industry, casino gambling could conceivably be a nightmare for Florida. As our state works through issues surrounding a gaming compact with the Seminole tribe, it is important we reflect on the potential negative consequences of expanded gambling and formulate policy accordingly. Bill McCollum, Attorney General, Tallahassee, Florida The Florida Times-Union http://www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/100207/opl_204483544.shtml |
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