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R.I. OKs panel to study gambling

Wednesday, April 10, 2002 | 11:04 a.m.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- The House on Tuesday approved creating a commission to study gambling, a move critics fear will thwart an Indian tribe's effort to win voter support for a casino this year.

The seven-member panel would look at gambling's effect on the economy and tourism, and weigh social and criminal costs. It would also estimate gambling's impact on state revenues -- an important consideration given the state's projected budget deficits for the next two fiscal years.

The committee, comprised of House Finance members, would hold public hearings around the state. It's due to report its findings by next April.

"What we are saying is, we want to give (voters) all the answers so (they) have both sides of the story," said Rep. Joseph Trillo, R-Warwick, who supports the commission.

The committee's report will help voters decide whether to hold a public vote on gambling, said House Finance committee chairman Gordon Fox, the bill's sponsor.

Voters must approve any new gambling operations in Rhode Island.

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