ARIZONA AND GAMBLING

Evening Post, Volume CXIX, Issue 98, 27 April 1935, Page 25

ARIZONA AND GAMBLING

Arizona is facing a fight over the legalising of gambling, a battle that would have been impossible a few years ago. The first indication of. a changed sentiment came in November, 1932, when the voters unexpectedly and by a large majority threw.the Prohibition amendment out of the Constitution. ■■ • , A Bill was recently passed by the House legalising pari-mutuel betting on horse and, dog races,' the State to take 3 per cent, of the proceeds. The gambling sentiment, however, is more far-reaching, since it is proposed to submit to the voters in November a referendum whether Arizona shall follow the example of Nevada and legalise poker, roulette, and other games of chance, states the "New York Times." ■ The sentiment is based,on economic, not moral, grounds. Arizona wants tourists, especially those who have money to spend. The situation is different from that in the east. There the money lost in gambling generally comes from members of the community. Arizona somewhat cynically figures that here it will come from visitors, probably wealthy easterns. Since the-days of the pioneers, acquiring the money of

well-to-do strangers has been looked on with tolerance if not approval.: The question of public revenue also enters.. Until four years ago about half of the' city, county, and State taxes were paid by the copper companies. But that was when copper was selling at 18 xents a pound. The assessments on the copper companies have been reduced, but even so, the companies hold they are far too high. If gambling is legalised, it is certain that high licence fees will be charged in addition to the percentages paid by the pari-mutuel machines. Any measure bringing in revenue has a strong appeal to officials trying desperately to balance budgets without arousing taxpayers to further wrath. ' .-■-., But the movement will not cafr} without a bitter battle. It is certain to be opposed by the churches, the women's clubs, and perhaps by some civic organisations. All those who are anxious to gain "tourists and homeseekers from other-States are not all of one mind. A large element feels ,that what Arizona most needs is permanent settlers, and it is pointed put that gambling does not attract- this desirable class. ■ *