July 28, 2006
Gambling Action Alert
Slots at Racetracks and privatization of the Lottery could come for a vote in Veto Session
Your help is needed to ask Legislative Candidates to publicly state their position on gambling!
The Illinois Racing Board concluded their series of meetings in Chicago this week. Some of the "cures" proposed by the hand-picked "experts" would expand gambling in Illinois during the Veto Session or the 2007 Spring Legislative Session. These "cures" include video slots (electronic gambling devices) at racetracks and Account Deposit Wagering, placing bets by phone, wireless devices, and through the Internet.
The Governor's office is hiring a consultant to prepare for the sale or lease of the Illinois State Lottery and expects to seek approval during the Veto Session. If the Lottery is sold, the private company will expand gambling to make more money. It is imperative for the public to know the position of Legislative Candidates and Gubernatorial Candidates on gambling-related issues BEFORE they cast their votes. The Veto Session begins one week after the election!
ILCAAAP held a press conference today and released the responses from our Legislative survey on gambling-related issues. One-third of the Senate Candidates (22) and one-fourth of the Representative Candidates (42) have responded to the survey so far. The two Gubernatorial Candidates have written letters to ILCAAAP concerning their positions on gambling. View the results at www.ilcaaap.org.
We need help from the individuals and groups in our statewide network to contact those candidates who have not responded to tell them of your concerns about gambling and to ask the candidates to publicly state their position on this important public policy issue.
For Immediate Action
- Check to see if the candidates running for State Representative and State Senator in your district have returned their Legislative Candidate Surveys. (Go to the Sate Board of Elections Website to determine your district number and names of candidates or call ILCAAAP at 877-204-6863)
- If NO - Ask to meet with them or talk with them at a Candidate Forum, fund-raising event, or community event. Hand them a copy of the Legislative Candidate Survey and ask them to complete it so you know their position on gambling BEFORE you cast your vote.
- If YES - Check the responses. Offer to help candidates who support your views on gambling-related issues (hand out campaign literature, help with mailings, put a sign in your yard, etc.)
- Forward to 6 others.