Maryland voters will decide Nov. 6th if a gambling expansion bill passed by the state General Assembly in August will come to fruition. The legislation would allow for a sixth casino, proposed for the National Harbor just outside of D.C., increase operating hours, and allow for table games. Taxes for the existing five casinos would also be lowered to account for increased competition. Voter opinions are virulent on both sides of the fence, with proponents touting additional revenue and jobs, and opponents concerned about traffic and the idea of lowering corporate taxes for the casinos when income taxes were raised for those making more than $100,000.
Maryland citizens have been barraged by record advertising spending over Question 7. More than $60 million has been spent by gambling companies in an effort to sway voters one way or another. Although many people say they have already made their decision, the ads are not likely to lighten up as Election Day draws near.
