So first we were told by gambling proponents that Maryland had to legalize slots to save the horse racing industry.
Then we were told we had to legalize slots because, well, just look at all that Maryland revenue that is crossing state lines that will go to other states.
Then we were told we need slots for the tax revenue to save our state (never mind that studies have shown that casinos per capita cost more than the tax revenue they generate).
Eventually, the well-monied pro-gambling lobby won out, and Maryland legalized slots. We're saved, right?
So, how are our slot machines doing in this recession? Not as well as predicted, it seems.
Slots revenue from Maryland's two casinos declined in June for the second straight month, dropping 5 percent to $12.61 million, the Maryland Lottery reported Tuesday.
While the rational person would take this as an indicator that we don't need any more licensed slot machine parlors in Maryland, somehow I expect gambling proponents to use this failure as a rationale to try to open even more casinos.
Great 'reminder' piece!
As I recall, slots were also going to "save or schools".
Posted by: MairZdoatz | July 07, 2011 at 11:37 AM