Oct 29, 2008 5:27 pm US/Eastern
Slots Will Finally Be Decided Next Week
Reporting
Adam May
BALTIMORE (WJZ) ―
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After years of debating slots in Maryland, it finally comes to a vote next week.
After years of debating slots in Maryland, it finally comes to a vote next week.
Adam May reports both sides ramped up the rhetoric Wednesday, making their final pitch.
One of four casinos in Maryland would pop up in the shadow of M&T Bank Stadium. In days, we'll know if Marylanders will take a gamble on slots.
Recovering gambling addict Mike Osbourne, who served time in prison for white collar crimes to fund his habit, now runs a gambling treatment center.
"Slots in our business is the most addictive form of gambling out there. It's called the crack cocaine of the gambling world," Osbourne said.
"Slots is just not good for the state," said Baltimore Comptroller Joan Pratt.
She now joins the state comptroller's opposition.
"This can cause all kinds of social problems in our city. It can cause more blight, crime, foreclosures," Pratt said.
"Whatever revenues come in, a dollar or two dollars' revenue go out the other door to take care of problems," Franchot said.
In Annapolis, the Maryland Association of Counties favors slots, saying it will help their budgets.
"I firmly believe if slots don't pass, the cuts that will come from the state will be so significant, it will imperil our progress to make progress in education," said Howard County Executive Ken Ulman.
But Osbourne says the expenses are underestimated.
"A compulsive gambler in Maryland, you're gonna need a public defender to defend you, court costs, police chasing you down, time incarcerated, bankruptcy, restitution," Osbourne said.
Opponents say this location is too close to impoverished neighborhoods where people can least afford to lose. Those in favor of slots say it's close to the interstate and tourist areas.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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