After several consecutive years when slot proposal was revoked even prior to its appearance on the House floor, Maryland has finally had a tumultuous week, especially sensed in Annapolis. The lawmakers in the House Ways and Means Committee polled for thousands of video slots machines at four locations across the state. For the first time slot bill is submitted to the full legislative debate. Yet, slot machines retain some blight characteristics as they attract dubious dealings over potential casino sites. The issue of gambling addiction is double raised as a result of slot machine implantation leaving many people mislead and frustrated.
The least that could be said about the latest House bill is that it does not allow racetrack owners to get-rich-quick and unlike the Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich's version, it identifies only four locations – in Allegany, Anne Arundel, Frederick and Harford counties and only one might prospectively involve track. In addition, the House bill exempts Prince George's County of any gambling initiations in compliance with the local legislative delegation.
The house slot bill is a diminished prototype of the Senate gambling smashing power. The number of slot machines proposed measure up to 9,500, instead of Senate 15,500 which will result in less grandiose revenue for the state. However, some may find the House version a bit more comforting as the committee appointed by the state to determine the proper site for slot machines will be dominated by slot skeptical legislators, rather then by pro-slots members.
