New York Times

To the Editor:

Editorial: Gambling Is Never Enough (May 10, 2008) Re “Gambling Is Never Enough” (editorial, May 10):

In arguing against expanding gambling in New York, you acknowledge that a “minority of players” are problem gamblers. You then oppose increasing gaming availability, in part because you fear increased availability will increase the problem.

That is not the case. Despite the opening of hundreds of new casinos across the country in recent years, the prevalence of pathological gambling has not increased.

We understand that about 1 percent of our potential market can be classified as “pathological gamblers,” and we are committed to helping them. But acknowledging this tiny minority doesn’t change the reality that millions of adults enjoy gambling and that gaming creates jobs, tax revenue, economic expansion, higher property values and increased tourism.

Frank J. Fahrenkopf Jr.
President and Chief Executive, American Gaming Association
Washington, May 16, 2008