Legalize Casinos?
January 26, 2008
The Gamble on Local Aid
Under Proposition 2 and half, cities depend upon local aid to survive. State aid is based upon lottery receipts. This year, lottery receipts are down, meaning local aid may be in for a fall. If local aid is cut, cities and towns are forced to raise taxes or lay off employees.
The Governor has proposed level funding local aid. Level funding is certainly better than a cut. However, even if State aid is level funded, this creates enormous problems for cities and towns. Our fixed costs for fuel, electricity, heat, pensions and health care are all going up, so level funding means that we have to cut something else to pay for these fixed costs.
To make up the difference between the shortage in lottery receipts and the amount required to level fund local aid, the Governor has proposed making up the difference using $124 million in licensing fees from legalized casinos. [Boston Globe: Patrick says $124m from fees could fill local aid shortfall ]
The problem, of course, is that the legislature has not legalized casino gambling. There are no licensing fees or other fees from casinos. The Governor’s proposal is designed to put pressure on the legislature and is certain to touch off a long and protracted debate.
January 29, 2008 at 2:34 pm
The Lottery is gambling so why the distinction between that and casino gambling? I personally do not gamble and wish there was a better way to raise money but it’s hypocritical to allow one form of gambling over another. Maybe Lottery profits are down because people have finally gotten the message that gambling is a losing proposition? If that is the case then casino gambling won’t be as profiatable either.
On the other hand, wouldn’t casinos bring in revenue from dinners and shows as well? Once out of Boston there is a lack of venues for entertainment.
April 21, 2008 at 12:20 pm
I say legalize it! Mass needs to change many things and this is one of them!