R.I. foes rally against expansion of gambling

NEWPORT, R.I. -- An anti-gambling group is mobilizing to fight plans to install more video gambling machines at Lincoln Greyhound Park and the Newport Grand Jai Alai fronton.

The state Lottery Commission is expected to discuss the two proposals during an April 26 meeting.

The Providence Journal-Bulletin reported another 850 gaming machines are planned on top of the 1,628 already in operation at the two venues.

Citizens Concerned About Casino Gambling says the added games will increase the changes that adults -- particularly over age 18 -- will become addicted to gambling.

The Newport-based group will advocate an increase in the state's minimum gambling age from 18 to 21. Members say that raising the gambling age will eliminate the need to add gaming machines by depriving the venues of those gamblers.

The Journal-Bulletin reported the group organized a busload of members to join foes of a proposed West Warwick casino in a rally at the state capitol. They paraded signs proclaiming "Enough Gambling" and "Teens out of Jai Alai and Lincoln."

archive