Don't let state scare towns into gambling

How sad it is that scare tactics and misinformation are being used to intimidate and confuse local officials from banning video poker machines in their communities.

We have now seen legislation introduced in the General Assembly that, if passed, could strong-arm communities to either allow video gambling machines in their towns, or pay up. Since Governor Quinn is already on record opposing this legislation, it is highly unlikely it will ever become law.

Whether it is misinformation or a simple misunderstanding, one Southside mayor said at the meeting of his city council on Feb. 4 that if they banned video poker machines, the city would lose $600,000. Perhaps the mayor was referring to the above mentioned bill, SB 2816, which would place a surcharge on towns that opt out of video poker in the amount estimated they would have paid in taxes to the state if they had allowed video poker machines.

Gambling interests are more concerned about the money they might make than the harm video poker machines would inflict on youth. and families who happen upon these addictive gambling machines when they go to their favorite neighborhood restaurant.

Local officials need to continue safeguarding their communities and not be intimidated from banning these predatory gambling devices.

Beth Paschall

Anti-Gambling Task Force, Northern Illinois Conference, United Methodist Church