April 26, 1999

Dear Constituents of District 32:

Thank you for your recent communication regarding charitable gaming. I have received public opinion messages from quite a few people that think charitable gaming is something the legislature should embrace as a revenue generator.

I have been told that HB 182 will benefit the State. I do not believe the legislature should promote a gambling industry that could result in a family's income for food, clothing and shelter being sacrificed for a family member's habits based on odds. This is simply a way of taking from people to keep government operating. This is not a way to help people or build an economy.

We are a state rich in resources that are locked up. We must amend state laws affecting natural resource development and encourage development of our natural resources. Our land should be put into the hands of people that can put the lands into production and create good paying jobs in the private sector. We should promote self-determination, not bad habits.

I do not believe gambling is good at anytime - certainly not for a state income source. This would be an allurement to those who can not afford taxation. This would prey on a segment of society by appealing to the principle of chance rather than the principle of self-government. A promise of a big return for little investment is a lie and I can not promote this.

Sincerely,

Representative John Coghill