When states become addicted to gambling....

Solving Budget Deficit with a Gamble
(ABC 6 NEWS) -- On Tuesday a group called Profit Minnesota unveiled its plan to put electronic gambling in bars and restaurants across the state.
"I think it'd be something of course as a business we'd discuss with the ownership here at Rookie's, but I also think that it's something that if was approached to us, we'd be able to accept very quickly," says Dean Nelson, Operations Manager at Rookie's Sports Grill and Bar in Rochester.

The state-regulated plan could add revenue without boosting taxes.


"Anything that can help our business succeed and generate more revenue, more guests that come into our business is great. On the flip side, if it's gonna help out the economy and as they say help with the budget, I think it's a win win situation," says Nelson.


But some health professionals say the plan could have unintended consequences, including those with a gambling addiction.

"The folks who just come in, a couple quarters, got an extra quarter in my pocket, not a big deal. It's the ones that are playing the rent money or other things and it's just gonna to expose vulnerable people to high risk situations," says Steve Lansing, PhD.

They agree that something needs to be done to fix the state's budget problems.

"I want to see things that are going to help people and if we're gonna raise more money, are there maybe better ways to do that?" says Lansing.

But say electronic gambling is not the solution.

Profit Minnesota will present it's plan to various political candidates for support.

In addition to giving money to the state, the group says it would generate nearly $230 millions for Minnesota charities.