The American Gaming Association is pleased with the conduct of today’s first meeting of the National Gambling Impact Study Commission. The Commission members acted responsibly in carrying out their duties and discussion regarding the study’s workplan over the next two years. I am disappointed, however, by the biased opening statements made by Rep. Frank Wolf and Sen. Paul Simon. Their testimony should have been balanced by Members of Congress who were responsible for the final bill that was enacted into law. It is clear this Commission will be very engaged and active in its task to study the social and economic impacts of gaming in the United States. The AGA looks forward and remains committed to working closely with the Commission in its endeavors, and we will lend our full cooperation if called upon.