Politics & Government

Pinsky Says No to Gambling in Prince George's

But admits that a casino at National Harbor would boost the coffers of local government.

Maryland State Sen. Paul Pinsky (D-Prince George's) said that he will not be voting to expand gambling to Prince George's County.

In Pinsky's October email newsletter, the senator outlined his position on what he said are the three most important ballot measures facing Prince George's County voters in the coming election: gambling, same-sex marriage and the Dream Act.

Pinsky on Question 7—Gambling in Prince George's

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Pinsky wrote that gambling is an "irresponsible" and "unfair" way to raise revenue.

"I have long opposed gambling and personally will be voting no on Question 7," wrote Pinsky. "Because gambling is usually more common among lower income groups, it objectively amounts to a tax on the poor. Gambling revenue is unlikely to result in extra state money for education."

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But Pinsky, while opposing gambling in Prince George's, did say that a casino at National Harbor would boost the coffers of local government. 

"I'm sympathetic to the argument that National Harbor might actually be the best location for gambling in the state, strengthening the new commercial efforts there," wrote Pinsky. "And while statewide, the increased revenue might not be realized, gaming at National Harbor might bring in increased local revenue to our county."

Pinsky on Question 4—Maryland Dream Act

Pinsky said he would support the Maryland Dream Act, which would allow undocumented, income-tax paying Maryland high school graduates to pay in-state tuition at public universities and community colleges.

"These students are already attending our K-12 schools, but then are effectively excluded from attending college because they are charged the unaffordable out-of-state rates at our universities and community colleges," wrote Pinsky. 

Pinsky on Question 6—Same-Sex Marriage

Pinsky said that he supports the marriage equality bill up for referendum vote this November. 

"It is time to give gay and lesbian couples the same rights to mary enjoyed by heterosexual couples," wrote Pinsky. "I have long believed that marriage is a civil right and legislation legalizing same-sex marriage is needed to end state-sanctioned discrimination."

In all, Prince George's County residents will be voting either for-or-against seven different state referendum initiatives and seven county charter referendums, the full details of which can be found on the Maryland State Board of Elections website


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