Delaware Government Hooked on Gambling

DOVER, Delaware -- As reported by The News Journal: "Delaware is hooked on gambling.

"The government could not pay its bills without the money legalized gambling pours into the state treasury,
  about $203 million this year.

"The state has become so dependent on money from slots that, facing the largest budget deficit in its history, Gov. Jack Markell wants to cash in even more.

"Though he has temporarily shelved his proposal to add three new casinos and up to 10 sports-betting parlors, Markell still aims to add sports betting next year and increase the state's share of casino profits -- a move he says would increase the state's gambling revenues in fiscal 2010 to $262 million.

"Although the General Assembly put off a planned vote last week on sports betting and a higher take from casino revenues, several members have said the measures are certain to pass as Markell attempts to close a projected $750 million budget deficit next year..."