MD Business Group to Back Slots Legislation - 05-01-08

May 1 - One of the most influential business groups in the state of Maryland, the Chamber of Commerce announced this week that it will give its weight to the controversial slots legislation passage that will go to the polls in November.

The State's General Assembly last year approved plans for 15,000 slot machines to be placed at five different spots across the state, with the condition that the final say about the slots legislation would be put in the hands of the voters in a special referendum.

The Chamber of Commerce said that the state looked to lose over $700 million from income that slot machines could generate for state coffers. "If the state does not get this money," said the Chamber's CEO, Kathy Snyder, "then the General Assembly has to come back in January and cut, which is unlikely, or make new taxes."

Snyder emphasized that he Chamber of Commerce was not in favor of expanding casino gambling, but did back the strategic placing of slots parlors at sites across the state. Parlors are planned for Baltimore City, Allegany, Anne Arundel, Cecil and Worcester Counties.

Opinion about the slots legislation has been divided in Maryland, with opponents simply saying that they are not in favor of increasing gambling activities in the state. Proponents, however, note the many benefits, including the fact that half the money generated is earmarked for state education.

Legislation recently received the backing of the Maryland Teacher's Association and Maryland Association of Counties, and the Chamber's Chairwoman, Betty Buck said: "Kindergarten through 12th grade and higher education are imperative for us to have a strong workforce. That's the priority."