By L.A. Williams
Christian Action League
July 21, 2023
A massive expansion of gambling in the form of multiple new casinos and the legalization of video lottery terminals — it’s the last thing North Carolina needs, but it may be what we get unless lawmakers hear from you today!
The Rev. Mark Creech, executive director of the Christian Action League, is calling on supporters to reach out to State Sen. Phil Berger at (919) 733-5708 to ask him to oppose any expansion of gambling.
One of the most powerful lawmakers in the Legislature, Berger has made it no secret that he believes there is a “better than 50-50” chance that the General Assembly will approve casinos, and possibly even video lottery terminals before the end of the session. What is hush-hush is what the legislation will look like and what role the issue could be playing in closed-door budget talks. As House and Senate negotiators try to settle on a spending plan that would include significant tax cuts, some lawmakers may be pushing gambling as an anticipated revenue stream.
Please Phone Senate President Pro-Tempore
Sen. Phil Berger (R-Rockingham)
919-733-5708
North Carolina already has three casinos: two on the western side of the state operated by the Eastern Band of Cherokees and one on Catawba tribal land off Interstate 85 near Kings Mountain. But rumors have circulated that lawmakers are looking to approve up to four more, possibly located in Nash, Anson, Robeson and Rockingham counties. Most recently, a report from WRAL revealed that NC Development Holdings, which has ties to casino developer The Cordish Companies, has applied to rezone nearly 200 acres in Rockingham County, which also happens to be where Berger lives.
Although the rezoning request does not include what the land would be used for, there is little question in the minds of neighbors, including managers of Camp Carefree, a summer camp for children with chronic illnesses and disabilities.
“We just don’t want a development like this to impact our summer program and take away from these kids who already don’t have a lot,” Ryan Joyce, a summer program director at Camp Carefree told CBS17 reporter Michael Hyland. “This is not something that’s going to be beneficial for the community.”
The planning board recommended against the rezoning on a 5-2 vote, but the decision will ultimately be made by the Rockingham County Commission, which is set to hear the request on Aug. 21. Sen. Berger’s son Kevin Berger is among the five Rockingham County commissioners.
The push for more casinos in the Tar Heel State seems to have gained steam since a temporary casino opened in Danville, Virginia, prompting worries that North Carolinians are crossing the border to spend money.
“The gaming is already taking place in North Carolina, and gaming is taking place on the border of North Carolina that is pulling money out of North Carolina,” Berger has told the media.
Please Phone Senate President Pro-Tempore
Sen. Phil Berger (R-Rockingham)
919-733-5708
The Rev. Creech pointed out that whatever revenue could be generated from gambling can’t begin to pay for the harm it creates.
Alexandra Sirota, executive director of the North Carolina Budget & Tax Center, agreed that expanded gambling is not the answer.
“The implications are potentially huge and they’re not good for North Carolinians,” she told WNCN. “North Carolinians are going to be pursued by this industry, and that is a problem.”
John Rustin, with the North Carolina Family Policy Council, said casinos are particularly harmful because they are “specifically and strategically designed to exploit people and entice them to gamble for as long as possible.”
He said casino developments which often include hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, and retail shops, keep patrons inside, spending their time and money, which diverts dollars away from local consumer goods and services and siphons money out of the local economy. Even worse, a significant percentage of gamblers will develop pathological or problem gambling issues leading to increases in crime, domestic violence, child abuse, divorce, job loss, personal bankruptcy, substance abuse, and even suicide, Rustin points out.
“Just because other states make poor choices doesn’t mean that North Carolina should do the same,” he added.
The Rev. Creech urges Christian Action League supporters to send a message to Sen. Phil Berger that North Carolina does not need more casinos or video lottery machines. Call (919) 733-5708 to ask him to oppose any expansion of gambling.
Please Phone Senate President Pro-Tempore
Sen. Phil Berger (R-Rockingham)
919-733-5708
Below are 10 talking points to help you. You can use one, use all of them, or just some of them. It’s up to you, but please call.
- Social and economic costs: Casinos have been associated with various social issues such as increased crime rates, gambling addiction, and higher rates of bankruptcy. The negative consequences can strain public resources and social services, putting a burden on the community.
- Exploitation of vulnerable individuals: Casinos exploit vulnerable individuals, including problem gamblers and those from lower-income backgrounds. These individuals are more susceptible to developing gambling addictions and often spend a significant portion of their income on gambling, exacerbating poverty and inequality.
- Economic impact on local businesses: While casinos may create job opportunities, studies have shown that they can have a negative impact on local businesses. Many local establishments, such as restaurants and small retailers, struggle to compete with the amenities and attractions offered by casinos, leading to closures and job losses.
- Regressive tax implications: Casinos often require substantial tax breaks and incentives from governments to establish themselves. These tax benefits can disproportionately favor wealthy investors and corporations, further exacerbating income inequality.
- Unpredictable revenue sources: Relying on casino revenue to fund public services is risky to say the least. Casino revenues can fluctuate greatly, especially during economic downturns, making it an unreliable and unstable source of revenue for essential public services like education and healthcare.
- Corruption and organized crime: The gambling industry has historically been associated with corruption and links to organized crime. Casinos create an environment that foster money laundering, bribery, and other illicit activities, posing a threat to the integrity of local institutions.
- Negative impact on local culture and tourism: Some argue that the establishment of casinos can diminish the unique cultural aspects and historical charm of a community. Additionally, the focus on gambling tourism may overshadow other attractions, discouraging visitors interested in different aspects of the local culture.
- Negative impact on public health: Studies have shown that areas with casinos often experience an increase in mental health issues, substance abuse, and even suicide rates. The prevalence of gambling addiction and its associated harms can have a severe impact on public health and well-being.
- Evaporation of wealth: Casinos are designed to generate profits for their owners, often at the expense of local communities. The majority of money spent in casinos tends to leave the local economy, benefiting out-of-state corporations or even foreign investors, which can lead to long-term economic losses for the community.
- Possible decline in property values: The presence of a casino can lead to a decline in property values, which negatively impacts homeowners and increase residential instability within a community.
