Tom Grey

In the following viewpoint Tom Grey argues that compulsive gambling has become a national epidemic. Once illegal in all states but Nevada, legalized gambling has grown as governments have come to see the revenues they receive from state-sponsored and state-sanctioned gambling as a means to balance state budgets and promote economic growth, claims Grey. However, gambling addiction destroys individuals and their families as well as increases crime in communities that have legalized gambling, Grey maintains. The price society pays for compulsive gambling, he argues, far outweighs any revenue governments may gain from it. Grey, a Methodist minister, is executive director of the National Coalition Against Legalized Gambling.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What effect did legalization of riverboat casinos have in Iowa, according to Grey?
2. What impact does pathological gambling have on families, in...