Gaming...Gambling...make them accountable!

Recently I attended a luncheon featuring an appearance by our area legislators. I usually do not attend many of these types of events, and I probably should do it more.

The major focus of the comments by the senator and representatives was money, or the lack thereof. I live in the state of Louisiana and own a business in Mississippi. Both states are in a severe financial crisis, as are so many states in America.

We were informed of the desperation of the situation, and almost everyone agreed that they did not have any clear definable answers to the problems.

But I was impressed and encouraged by remarks made by Representative George Flaggs. I hate to admit that until that day I had not spoken with Rep. Flaggs, and definitely not had him as a guest on my morning radio program. Rep. Flaggs was very direct, specific and focused with his comments on how the state’s budget deficit could be fixed.

It was his remarks on an increase of taxes on cigarettes that really made me think. Rep. Flaggs said that an increase of $1.00 per pack of cigarettes could essentially repair one of the major problems of Mississippi funding woes, Medicaid. He said that the increase would generate over $200 million dollars, and almost single-handedly solve the $268 million Medicaid shortfall. There is a big difference between 200 and 268,but generating 200 million definitely puts it within reach of a solution.

Rep. Flaggs also said something very profound. He said that if cigarettes are going to do so much to make us sick, then they should do a lot more in helping to make us well. I say HERE, HERE! He also hinted at other “vices” that should be included in a tax increase, wine and beer. He came close to mentioning gambling, but did not. (The reaction from the audience would have been interesting since several casino representatives were in attendance)

But this brings up my view; why is the state’s leadership so dead set against increasing taxes on “gaming” Could it be the threats from casinos that if taxes are raised then they will lay off workers and close locations? Is it the fear felt by state leaders that if they “bow up” at the gambling industry that they might lose revenue, revenue that was never intended to be such a mainstay of so many budgets? Could it be possible that some, not the speakers at the luncheon mind you, are “in bed” with the gamblers?

It is my opinion, and I believe figures bear it out, that the gaming industry in Mississippi, and across the country, is making more money that we can even imagine, and claims by the gaming industry that they would collapse if taxes on them are increased is nothing but FEAR TACTICS and EXTORTION.

It is hard to understand why they say they have so little, when the state and local municipalities and footing the bill for them in the form of tax exemptions. Now, the state of Mississippi wants to begin offering college course in slot machine technology and casino management, at state colleges and universities, all paid for by state tax dollars.

You have to admit the gambling industry is good at what they do, deceiving and stealing.

I applaud Rep. George Flaggs for his comments and encourage him and other lawmakers to have the courage to make the tough decisions, and hold the leaches know as the gaming industry as accountable as the rest of us.