So why am I writing about the subject now? Because I read the proposed 20-page bill, and it's a bad bill. Where were our legislators when this bill was being written? Where was our legal representation?
The bill is so one-sided in favor of the casino owners and operators that it obscures the real issues surrounding a casino in Maine. I personally cannot vote in favor of such a bill the way it's worded, regardless of whether or not I'm in favor of the casino. The bill needs to be rewritten before Mainers can make an informed decision, but since this is not likely to happen, I caution everyone to read the bill before voting. You can do so on the Casinos No! Web site, including their comments on problem areas, or without comments at the Think About It Web site. I recommend you read the version with the comments and make your own judgments about them.
Also, the referendum question that will appear on the ballot in November appears to be written by a proponent of the casino rather than being worded in a way that doesn't attempt to encourage a vote one way or the other. If you take the question at face value, but haven't read the entire bill, you have no idea what you are really voting on.
Whether you are for or against the casino, be an informed voter.