Lynch Needs Convincing Before Entertaining Gambling Expansion in NH

New Hampshire could very easily follow in the footsteps of other states around the country. Expand legalized gambling and allow for money to pour in from casino operators to help with the budget.

That will not be the case, however, according to Governor John Lynch. He has said repeatedly that he will need to see overwhelming evidence in favor of the expanded gambling before it would even be considered.

Rockingham Park in Salem has an option out on it by a Nevada group that is looking to purchase the track. The key to the sale, however, is that the group be allowed to bring in slot machines on the site. The group would also bring Thoroughbred racing back to Rockingham.

The Governor is highly concerned, as most politicians are before seeing the facts, that expanded gambling would have a negative impact on the people of New Hampshire.

"Unless I am absolutely convinced it wouldn't have an effect on our quality of life, I wouldn't even entertain a discussion about supporting it," said Lynch.

The state is facing a deficit of about $50 million. The expanded gambling could bring in an additional $150 million a year in revenue, according to a study by Millennium Gaming Inc. /[;[[[[[']



2008-01-29