Why is New York in the business of encouraging gambling?
I am embarrassed by the television commercials paid for by New York Racing Association that promote gaming — for the purpose of funding education. It seems the prevailing philosophy is that the end justifies the means.
As a former educator, I am surely in favor of investing in education, but I am against trying to raise educational funds through gambling.
Gambling is highly addictive. A 2011 study on addictions through the University at Buffalo indicated that gambling addictions are more common among U.S adults than alcohol dependence.
The Center for Problem Gambling in Albany has stated that problem gamblers are harder to treat than alcohol and drug addicts. They have higher rates of relapse as well as higher rates of depression and suicide.
Further, NYRA is losing money, despite taking in millions in bets and new video slots (editorial "What's wrong with this picture," Sept. 28). Alleged corruption in the way NYRA has been managed only adds to the argument that state-sponsored gambling has a degenerative effect on those involved.
So why is New York in the business of funding and promoting such a potentially risky and unhealthy activity?
Let's end this demoralizing practice of New York-sponsored gambling, both in terms of racing and other "revenue enhancers" like casinos and a state lottery.
As a society, I don't believe we should take any pride in our gambling revenue.
BETTY CASEY
Clifton Park