Regardless as to what it is called: casino gambling, pari-mutuel betting, horse racing, dog track racing, slot machines, poker, on-line gambling, etc., the Troup Baptist Association is opposed to legalizing gambling in Georgia – period.
We are opposed for many reasons. First and foremost, the gambling industry (or “gaming” industry, as those who favor its legalization like to call it) is designed on a business plan that requires more people to lose – than win. They give false hope of winning to those who gamble. However, the odds always favor the house! If a person plays long enough, they will lose.
Secondly, those in the gambling industry tout the amount of money their industry will pump into the local economy via taxes, jobs, and ancillary businesses associated with their industry. However, what they fail to disclose is that, all too often, these financial gains come at the expense of those who can least afford to lose any of their money. In reality, legalized gambling is a regressive form of taxation.
Thirdly, gambling is addictive. Many marriages, families, homes, health, and fortunes are lost due to someone becoming addicted to gambling. Consequently, many families are deprived of the basic necessities of life. As a result, governments and social agencies are forced to provide services for these families.
Fourthly, crime and social ills often increase as a result of legalized gambling, i.e. theft, prostitution, illegal drug use, etc. In short, gambling is not a game!
Fifthly, legalized gambling cause’s taxpayers to fund increased costs for extra police, social services, health care, etc.
In conclusion, we must remember than any claim of prosperity made by the gambling industry, for individuals or the community at large, is predicated upon people losing.
For the reasons listed above, along with a myriad of unintended consequences legalized gambling may produce, we are opposed to any form of legalized gambling.
Again, legalized gambling is not a game!