What is the GBC s position on slot machines at Marylands racetracks?
We haven t seen a proposal from the Legislature, so we would hold off on taking a formal position. It is certainly a more palatable solution than an increase in income taxes or sales taxes. The state has worked very hard over the years to create a good business climate in Maryland. Increasing business taxes may not be the best way to boost the economy right now. I think legislators are most likely to be inclined to support slots. How soon it can be done and how soon the revenues will be available — that is where the battles will be. From the GBC s perspective, we re going to have to look at that and determine whether the benefits from the increased revenues outweigh the social costs that some contend come with slots. Can you balance a state’s need for revenue from slots with such social issues as compulsive gambling, family destruction and alcoholism that have been linked to them? You have to look at some of the studies that have been conducted and some of the historical, anecdotal in
