Monday, March 31, 2003
Romney had proposed that the States of Rhode Island and Connecticut pay the Commonwealth $75 million dollars, in exchange for a promise not to expand gambling in Massachusetts. If those States do not fork over the cash, Romney will move to legalize video lottery terminals and auction licenses to the highest bidder.
Romney is essentially asking Rhode Island and Connecticut to pay him tribute, to pay protection for their gambling operations. This is extortion - with a twist. Because while Romney is threatening to expand gambling in Massachusetts, he is also trying to cut State funding to the Mass. Council on Compulsive Gambling. HIs budget axed the $1M that the State sends the Council from unclaimed lottery prizes.
Romney is essentially asking Rhode Island and Connecticut to pay him tribute, to pay protection for their gambling operations. This is extortion - with a twist. Because while Romney is threatening to expand gambling in Massachusetts, he is also trying to cut State funding to the Mass. Council on Compulsive Gambling. HIs budget axed the $1M that the State sends the Council from unclaimed lottery prizes.
