The Rain in Maine

While online slots are not readily accessible here in the States, Maine is currently dealing with slot machine issues of their own when it comes to Indian gaming. Governor John Baldacci is staunchly against letting the tribes add slots to their casino on their own reservation. While the specific bill was passed, the governor will still have veto power, which will resend the bill to the House and Senate, who will then have to have a re-vote to overturn the veto. (It’s a wonder anything ever gets done, but I digress.)

The slots issue is very complex, as both sides are very passionate, and because gambling has pros which are beneficial and cons which are potentially very severe, it has become an ongoing argument in several cities worldwide. Economies benefit from the revenue that casinos bring in. That’s not the issue. The major debate is over whether the revenue is worth the potential dangers: from addiction to bankruptcy and even depression and suicide. While the money is certainly welcome in rough economic times like these, some even argue that the financial dangers and risks that gambling presents are a more covert and overlooked issue, and that it might be a contributing factor to the negative economic climate.

So it looks like, regardless of the legislation’s outlook, the governor is planning to rain on Maine’s slots parade, at least for today. For it seems that he values public health and safety over the chance to test the odds for the chance to strike it big. And while slots are definitely popular and entertaining, the question remains. Just because something is fun, does it mean that it’s good for you?

Back to July 2008 Archive.