Gambling: Consequences of Gambling

"It is good to have money and the things that money can buy, but it's good too, to check up once in a while and make sure you haven't lost the things money can't buy." --George Lorimer

Welcome to the consequences of gambling. Very rarely, if ever, does gambling result in a positive social outcome. Even those who defy the astronomical odds and "win big" often return to the trough from which they were fed — to play for more money. Riches turn to rags, and the cycle of destruction begins afresh. The appetite of addiction is never satisfied. The costs are great, and the returns are poor. Why do we, as a society, continue to promote gambling?

Features

Internet Gambling Is Irresponsible Policy

Chairman of the House Financial Services, Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA), introduced two bills on May 6, 2009 that would legalized online or internet gambling in the U.S. (HR 2267) and also delay the date which banks and financial institutions much comply with federal regulations prohibiting online gambling with illegal, unlicensed Internet casinos (HR 226). Rep. McDermott (D-WA) also introduced a bill that would legalize online gambling (HR 2268). Focus on the Family opposes all forms of gambling, but we are especially concerned about the invasive and addictive nature of Internet gambling and its potential to destroy countless families.

Illinois: Two Gambling-Expansion Bills

The General Assembly has been called into a special session to discuss two gambling-expansion bills. One bill will lease the lottery 50-65 years (HB 1496), while the second bill while the other bill (HB 2651) is a massive expansion of gambling that includes more casinos, racinos, Internet gambling and expansion of existing casinos.

Tribal Off-Reservation Gambling

Off-reservation gambling and land-into-trust continue to be issues exploited by many tribes through the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). Tribal gambling issues are frequently being heard in Congress, so check this site often to find about recent events.

Research, Testimonies And Articles From The Experts

Find gambling-related research, documents and testimonies from the experts. Check this site often, as it is currently being developed and new documents will appear as permissions are granted.

Miami-Dade Voters Wooed by Slots

Florida is saturated with gambling. Now the predatory gambling industry is pushing for more. The vastly rich Seminole Tribe is pressing Gov. Crist for expanded gambling, while Miami-Dade County just approved 6,000 slot machines at three race tracks and jai alai frontons.