Learn from mistakes on gambling expansion

A March 7 headline in the Daily Herald read: “A good bet for state? Quinn says new casinos should fund schools, pension.” That’s exactly what all the headlines read over 40 years ago when the state announced it would offer a weekly lottery. And how’s that working out for Illinois’ educational system?

Revenue from casinos will only replace what has already been earmarked in the state budget for education and pensions, not increase the needed expenditures. We shouldn’t have believed politicians four decades ago, and we shouldn’t trust them today.

Larry Schneider

Buffalo Grove