I do not support the movement to bring casinos into Massachusetts as other states have done. There could be short term benefits during the development stage of the project, as people will gain employment. Then, the initial opening and operation of a casino will involve hiring more people for games, food service, maintenance and other needs.

The problem arises with the addictive nature of gambling and with the kind of social element which is often attracted to centralized gambling facilities. Casinos are set up to separate people from their money. By and large, most people will exit with less cash than they went in with.

In my opinion, casino gambling will ultimately cost the state more money than it would generate. The casino would entice people to do unwise things with the money they have. Many might borrow money to spend at a casino, potentially increasing debts and financial bondage. Gambling in general hurts the people who can’t really afford to lose, but participate with high hopes for sudden financial gain. Eventually, there will be a high price to be paid by the state to address social ills, extra law enforcement, and public infrastructure maintenance. Casino developers will get their money at the beginning. Later, the people of Massachusetts may end up holding the bag.