National Gambling Impact Study Commission Meeting

Today’s second meeting of the National Gambling Impact Study Commission provided an opportunity for the gaming industry to present its case and outline the many benefits the industry provides. The American Gaming Association believes that the Commission now has a national perspective of the positive aspects of gaming in the United States, which balances the one-sided, anti-gaming testimony presented at the Commission’s first meeting in June. Senator Richard Bryan (D-Nev.) gave an impressive presentation to the Commission, emphasizing the economic benefits gaming has brought to his home state of Nevada. Sen. Bryan also stated in his remarks that the Congressional intent requires the Commission to study various sectors of the gaming industry in addition to casino gaming, including lotteries, Indian gaming, Internet gaming, the parimutel industry and charitable gaming organizations. I am extremely encouraged by the Commission’s 8 to 1 vote in favor of proceeding with a contract agreement with the National Academy of Sciences’ National Research Council to study problem and underage gambling. This action reflects the Commission’s understanding of the necessity for trained physicians, psychiatrists, counselors and other experts, with appropriate peer review, to research and study this issue. It is unfortunate, however, that the Commission has not yet decided on an executive director. Several Commission members noted their concern that this delay will hinder the ability to move forward in a productive and timely manner.