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In a world where the acceptance of gambling is increasingly common, Utah remains an oasis of sensibility. For the sake of maintaining such uniqueness, KSL believes steps must be taken to reverse an upsurge in gambling activity within our borders.
First, we’re concerned about the astonishing proliferation of so-called poker tournaments throughout the state. It comes as part of a nationwide explosion in poker playing, spurred undoubtedly by popular televised events. Typically, such telecasts glamorize the card game without portraying poker’s potentially devastating consequences. Prosecutors across the state should nip the practice in the bud by going after promoters who defiantly skirt the law while claiming their events involve more skill than chance.
Equally worrisome is the possibility of Internet gambling becoming a mainstay within Utah’s borders. Such could be the result of a recent World Trade Organization ruling that some say prohibits the United States and states like Utah from blocking Internet gaming. While there are conflicting interpretations of the ruling’s impact, KSL believes every effort should be made by state officials and the Bush administration to take steps to assure states would not be forced to allow Internet gambling.
Utah’s unique status as a state unwilling to succumb to the contemporary lure of gambling in its many forms must be preserved.
