Tampa Tribune Editorial: Atlantic City’s Losing Streak Proves Gambling Expansion a Bad Idea

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Editorial: Atlantic City’s losing streak proves gambling expansion a bad idea

Published: September 8, 2014

State lawmakers who think it’s a good idea to expand gambling options in Florida should not be blinded by healthy revenue projections for the Seminole Tribe casinos in Tampa and other parts of the state.In fact, they would be better served to gaze upon the grim scene taking place in New Jersey, where an estimated 8,000 workers are expected to lose their jobs as three major casinos in Atlantic City close their doors.

It’s another blow to a city that greedily banked its future on the lure of high-stakes gambling and is now paying the price as casinos spread to neighboring states and saturate the market. Eight casinos will remain in Atlantic City, for now, but a lack of other industries and a dearth of non-gambling jobs means there is little hope for the newly unemployed to find work in the city they call home.

In the end, the house always leaves the gambler the worse for wear. It’s a lesson the state should take to heart when considering whether to allow more gambling options in a state known for its sunshine, silky beaches and family tourist destinations.

Read full editorial here