The Sun Post had an editorial on the Return of the Slot Machine Referendum.The Post suggest that:
“Proponents of slot machines should remember they were previously defeated in Miami-Dade partly because they promised too much. For example, they pledged that taxes on slot machines would benefit education. What they neglected to explain was that the revenue would be distributed statewide in accordance with an already set formula for education revenue. When all is said and done, Leon County’s school district, with its lower cost of living and smaller school population, probably benefited more from Broward’s slot machines than Broward. The same will be true with Miami-Dade County Schools. They will get some benefit from revenue — but not a lot.”
The editorial seemed to agree with me: It is a bad deal for the county. The paper also seemed as uninterested in the outcome of the referendum as I am.
I read an interesting article, in the “Hallandale Digest” on gambling, remember it is legal in Hallandale. (And , yes while looking for material for this blog, I am reading any periodical I can lay my hands on: even the Hallandale Digest - which announced that Hallandale Beach is considering a 6 month building moratorium by the way).
According to the article gamblers who are addicted to gambling can participate in self-exclusion programs at Broward’s casinos. The program was started by the Seminoles now it is a State regulation. According to the article “Florida is one of several casino states that offer the self-exclusion program.” It is designed to keep compulsive gamblers out of casinos.
How the program works:
A gambler visits the casino, admit they have a problem, have their photograph taken and sign a contract that can range from a year to a lifetime. The contract is legally binding and they cannot change their mind later. Participants in the program can be arrested as a tresspasser if they go to a casino. If they do get in without being recognized (remember the photo is part of the contract) and they win over $1,200 they (as all gamblers) have to show a photo ID so they will get nabbed collecting the dough. Good idea.
I picture all these women with guns to their husband’s head, making them sign these contracts. I wonder if that is legal, bringing your husband in to sign up with a gun to his head? I also picture all these little old ladies being led in to sign by an exasperated relative. I wonder how many of these contracts are signed in Florida? Probably about 6 or 7.
No comments:
Post a Comment