Letter: Nevada overdue for state lottery

Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2003 | 9:08 a.m.

Let's amend the constitution and bring the lottery to Nevada. I can't understand why the selling of tickets can't be widespread -- the small businesses could use the commissions on sales and winnings.

It's apparent a lot of people have their heads in the sand and don't understand the need nor the economic development in spreading the marketplace. In Illinois the state sells tickets not only through small businesses and supermarkets, but also through the airports. In New Jersey, everything is the same as in Illinois except not all the casinos participate. Most of the other states do the same.

Seemingly, the politicians are not talking to other states, but only to the casino industry for approval. The lottery should be spread to all those who care to participate, not just a chosen few because of their "comfort level." It seems as though our Carson City representatives walk on eggshells when the lottery is mentioned.

One would think that because of the tax situation, this would be a "no brainer" and the representatives would unanimously vote approval. This is a lottery that's long overdue and whose mission should be to bring additional revenue to the state, thereby lessening the tax burden for its citizens.

R. L. MC NEAL