Election Eve: QUESTION 7

Electronic gaming expansion in Maryland is one of the major issues that Maryland voters must vote on, in 2012's election.

Many voters, voting against Question 7 believe that gaming expansion will greatly increase drug trafficking, prostitution, and crime in Maryland.

The question reads:

"Question 7
Gaming Expansion Referendum
(Ch. 1 of the Second 2012 Special Session)
Gaming Expansion

Do you favor the expansion of commercial gaming in the State of Maryland for the primary purpose of raising revenue for education to authorize video lottery operation licensees to operate “table games” as defined by law; to increase from 15,000 to 16,500 the maximum number of video lottery terminals that may be operated in the State; and to increase from 5 to 6 the maximum number of video lottery operation licenses that may be awarded in the State and allow a video lottery facility to operate in Prince George’s County?
For the Additional Forms and Expansion of Commercial Gaming
Against the Additional Forms and Expansion of Commercial Gaming"

As you can see, the voter can only vote for or against the passing of this referendum.

Staff members and students of Frostburg State University have different opinions about gaming expansion, and its intentions in Maryland.

John Pierce, an FSU student, expressed that all he knows is what he has been hearing. He has heard that most people are traveling to West Virginia consequently raising money for another state. Pierce thinks it would be better if that money was going to Maryland (as many politicians for Question 7 have promised). Pierce said his grandfather is a gambler and it would be nice if he did not have to travel far to gamble. John Pierce is voting for Question 7.

Mary Winters (an FSU staff member) said "I have no opinion because I hear so many things for it and so many things against it...I don't know which one to believe." Mary said that she hopes the money will go to education if the referendum passes. She said she does not know whether she will vote for or against the referendum.

Robert Brette, an FSU staff member, felt very strongly about voting against the issue. Robert said "Don't do it!" Afterwards, he discussed many disadvantages to the referendum including no jobs for the people in the area and no money towards education. Robert Brette resides in the metropolitan area, and says that he has not yet benefited from the National Harbor that went up years ago. The National Harbor promised jobs for the local residents, and he has not seen any local benefits. He complained about the traffic congestion that has come as a result of the attraction. Brette is voting against Question 7, and has been encouraging voters to do the same.

Vote! Exercise your civil right and duty as a citizen!