Gambling on Election Day

With Election Day less than a week away, we're taking a look at ballots across the country. Gambling related propositions, initiatives, questions and measures are important issues being considered by voters in eight states next Tuesday.

Here's a rundown of the basics and what the opponents to gambling expansion are saying:

On November 4th Californians will consider Proposition 48, a Referendum on Indian Gaming Compacts. Opponents urge a "NO" vote because, they say, "We don't want to see Indian gambling spread to non-tribal lands."

While this issue is on the ballot, a federal judge shut down the Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino after an armed stand-off that endangered the public inside the casino. Residents are understandably wary.

In Colorado the issue is Horse Racetrack Limited Gaming Proceeds for K-12 Education, Amendment 68. The Vote No on 68 group points to hundreds of millions of dollars in hidden costs and a revenue plan that benefits those outside of the state more than citizens of Colorado.

Massachusetts voters will vote on the Casino Repeal Initiative, Question 3. Proponents want an end to all gambling in the state.

In South Dakota, voters will decide the Gambling in Deadwood, Amendment Q. The Family Heritage Alliance says a "NO" vote is the best way to "slow the almost constant expansion of gambling in the state of South Dakota."

Rhode Islanders have two issues to consider. Gaming at Newport Grand, Question1 and Restriction on Gambling, Question 2 which would allow expansion to table games and restrict relocation of a current gambling location respectively. A group called Citizens Concerned About Casino Gambling says that a casino is a "no win situation for Newport."

The Kansas Charitable Gaming Measure - SCR 1618 and the South Carolina Legalization of Charitable Raffles, Amendment 1 both deal with legalization of non-profit organizations holding raffles as fundraisers. For the most part, opposition of both issues has been slight due to the tight restrictions and definition of what a legal raffle will allow. Those concerned about future expansion of gambling will be watching closely to make sure both measures don't lead to more games.

Finally, in Tennessee the Charitable Gaming Amendment 4, if passed, would include veterans' groups like the American Legion and VFW (which are 501(c)(19) organizations) to hold an annual charitable gaming fundraiser as 501(c)(3) organizations are currently allowed in the state.

It's also important to note that decisions regarding some candidates will affect the future of gambling. After the gubernatorial election in Wisconsin, the next governor will decide if a new casino will be built in Kenosha, so even though gambling isn't officially on the ballot in Wisconsin, it's an important issue in this year's election.

Though some ballot issues are more controversial than others, we hope voters in each state will educate themselves and make good decisions regarding the expansion of gambling and how it will affect us nationwide.