Sandra Ferguson, Director of Justice Ministries for the Baltimore Washington Conference is calling on all United Methodists to once again join the campaign to stop the governor's proposal to bring slot machines to Maryland.
As United Methodists, we oppose gambling as "a menace to society and a regressive tax on the poor" - said Ms. Ferguson. Bishop John Schol has joined religious leaders from across the region in opposing the proposal. In a written statement it was noted that: “The state should not depend on gambling expansion for resources to pay for needed services. The long range, negative consequences of gambling are well documented.”
Governor O'Malley has also proposed a special session to consider his budget plan which includes revenue raised from slot machines. The danger here is that a special session may not include the normal hearings and input from citizens that the regular session provides. The religious community has voiced opposition to the special session. The General Assembly normally convenes in January.
We have prevailed, before, we can prevail again. Be sure to contact your House of Delegates member. Contact information is available at: www.msa.md.gov/msa/mdmanual/06hse/html/hse.html
