There was an article concerning the Alabama Legislature 2021 Session in The Cullman Tribune on January 2, 2021. Garlan Gudger and Randall Shedd commented on whether or not to allow gambling and in which forms it might take. I am concerned that the article did not mention that there is only one “pot” of money in Alabama or any other state.
Gambling may “generate” the estimated $510 to 710 million in revenue for the state, BUT the state gets that money from people who are buying a gambling ticket INSTEAD OF getting a haircut, buying children’s clothes, paying the dentist and dining out. It simply entices people to think they will be one of the few “winners,” whereas the $510 to 710 million for the state comes from the overwhelming number of “losers.”
The estimated “increase” in jobs is similar. That state money employs people but the local businesses, which would have gotten the money by providing services and goods, lay off people because of their decreased income.
The additional “66,000 people predicted to have ‘gambling disorders’” is the only truly ADDED number
Is there any real good that comes out of this for the people and businesses of Alabama?
Sincerely,
Dixie Bergquist
