Numbers Belie Problem Gambling Claims by Online Casino Foes
Continuing a pattern found around the US, opponents of Internet casinos are making statements that seem contrary to factual results. Tom Grey of Stop Predatory Gambling says Barney Frank's bill proposing regulation of online gambling should be defeated because casinos deceive people into thinking they are gamble themselves out of economic trouble, despite strong evidence patrons think no such thing."If it (online gambling) were such a great product, you would think that we'd all be able to gamble ourselves rich," says Grey. "Evidently Barney feels that personal freedom, that we ought to be able to do whatever we please, includes losing our house with the click of a mouse without ever leaving it by gambling inside,"
But Grey proceeds on the assumption that players believe they are likely to hit jackpots, says OCA gambling expert Sherman Bradley. Bradley notes that, as economic difficulties have increased, casino gaming revenues have sharply declined, indicating patrons are adjusting entertainment budgets rather than chasing illusions.
According to figures released today by the American Gaming Association, national casino revenues dropped five percent across the US last month, continuing a trend of over a year.
Grey argues of proponents of online gambling, "...to come in and say 'we now want people to do it from within their homes' seems to me the height of irresponsibility on the part of a government that ought to protect and serve us."
Bradley replies that this line of reasoning would lead to a government that confiscates cars, as they could pose a danger when misused. He asserts that gaming foes do not understand that the reason penny slots and cheap table limits are returning is because people want to enjoy gambling for the entertainment it provides, without risking beyong their means.
