Summary

In recent years, New York State has dramatically increased access to legalized gambling in an effort to raise revenue. Since 2001, sanctioned gambling in the state has become a favorite revenue enhancer for elected officials, beginning with Indian compacts allowing casinos in Western New York and the Catskills, the approval of video lottery terminals (VLTs) at race tracks (“racinos”), and the state’s entrance in the Mega Millions multi-state lottery. And the state continues to up the ante nearly every year.

Conference Position

The New York State Catholic Conference opposes all casino gambling in New York State including casinos on Native American-owned land, as well as expanded opportunities for non-casino legalized gambling, such as the new racinos and endless new lottery games.

Rationale

While gambling may tempt the state by the lure of economic benefits, it comes with a high cost, including a disproportionate negative impact on the poor, state-sanctioned promotion of the addictive disease of compulsive gambling and an increase in crime.

Studies show that gambling is ‘regressive,’ in that the percentage of money spent on gambling decreases as income rises. Casinos and high-stakes lotteries offer a false hope of economic and social salvation for those caught in the throes of poverty.

According to the National Council on Compulsive Gambling, 5 to 8 percent of people who play games of chance become compulsive, with another 15 to 20 percent gambling beyond a normal degree. The Council has reported that more than half of compulsive gamblers rely on illegal means to support their habit. Compulsive gambling destroys lives and families as surely as drug and alcohol addiction. Increasingly, teenagers are falling victim to the disease.

In addition, statistics in Atlantic City showed a steep rise in major crime following the opening of that city’s casinos. And history has shown that organized crime will become a presence in an atmosphere of legal gambling.

When looking at potential sources for new revenue, it is the responsibility of government to consider the consequences. Continued expansion of gambling will be devastating to individuals and families. The state must not be a partner in the spiritual and physical destruction of its own citizens.