Marylanders United to Stop Slots Petitions to Dismiss Language on Slots Referendum

On August 20th, 2008, slot machine critics formally asked the state board of elections to dismiss the wording of a referendum question that will be place to voters in November 2008 on whether to allow or not to allow slot machines at five different locations in Maryland. Marylanders United to Stop Slots, a ballot organization vehemently opposed to the slots proposal, has stated that the language of the question that will be put into the ballot is in favor of the planned constitutional amendment because it states the ways in which slots revenue would help public education but not how a part would accrue to gaming and horse racing sectors.

The organization has also criticized the propriety of having Secretary of State John P. McDonough, who formerly worked as an attorney and lobbyist for Rosecroft Raceway in Prince George's County, composed the language of the proposal. Rosecroft would not be the main location of a slots parlor under the draft but could benefit in various ways if it is approve.

McDonough, who submitted the referendum question to the board, has denied any wrongdoing and commented that he based the language in the legislation approved by the General Assembly last year.

Tuesday, 02 September 2008
Cindy Alfonso