Issue Position: Expanded Gambling

Issue Position

Many constituents contact Representative Peisch to voice their opinions on both sides of the expanded gambling debate. Rep. Peisch's position with respect to this issue has always been that the burden is on the proponents of expanded gambling to show that the benefits of any proposal outweigh the costs.

As was the case last session, Rep. Peisch remains persuaded that, overall, the proposal benefits the Commonwealth significantly more than it is likely to cost the Commonwealth. There were several factors that led to this conclusion, including the following:

- The legislation will create thousands of jobs;
- Expanded gambling will result in significant additional state revenues;
- Those revenues will be directed to a variety of underfunded programs, including education and local aid; and
- The bill provides for strict regulation of the industry.

Representative Peisch is aware of the legitimate concerns that have been raised regarding the expansion of gambling in the Commonwealth. It is Rep. Peisch's belief that such an expansion is inevitable, and the state is now in a better position to address these concerns in Massachusetts if a proposal is approved now. For example, the Commonwealth can maximize the likely revenue, impose limitations on the number and type of gambling facilities, and secure funds for the treatment of gambling addiction. If there is no action, Massachusetts residents will continue to patronize the Connecticut facilities, resulting in significant financial benefit to the Connecticut while Massachusetts bears all the costs associated with those who might be compulsive gamblers.

Rep. Peisch does not believe that expanding gambling should or will preclude the state from supporting other measures to stimulate economic development, such as investing in transportation infrastructure and public eductation.

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