Online Betting

Today’s thought is a little off message, but is heartfelt. In most states we have turned over part of the funding for public education by leveling taxes on gambling and lotteries. They are taxing the poor to support education as opposed to making public education every person’s duty and obligation. I, for one, think this is not good public policy, but I’ve lost that battle long ago.

Now states are all rushing to approve online betting. One can’t turn on the tube to a sporting event without seeing multiple ads for online gambling. States are rushing to approve this form of entertainment, to fatten their coffers. What are they going to do with this money? I am sure there will be those who suggest we lower income or property taxes once again by taxing the poor to benefit the rich. I call it the reverse “Robin Hood” effect.

Here is thought. Why not use this windfall to fund day care for teachers and school staff at every school in the country. Many teachers struggle to afford day care while they teach. Why not use already existing facilities to provide day care for teachers, policemen, fireman, and other municipal and school workers. If teachers have the availability to have day care at the school where they teach, they will be more willing to stay in the profession.

I encourage our leaders to think about finding ways to benefit those underpaid workers who educate, protect, and serve our communities, as opposed to finding new crimes and legislating our morals.

Sorry for the diversion, but it’s been on my mind lately for some reason, perhaps “FanDuel” has taken over my brain.

About the author

Webb Hubbell is the former Associate Attorney General of The United States. His novels, When Men Betray, Ginger Snaps, A Game of Inches, The Eighteenth Green, and The East End are published by Beaufort Books and are available online or at your local bookstore. When Men Betray won one of the IndieFab awards for best novel in 2014. Ginger Snaps and The Eighteenth Green won the IPPY Awards Gold Medal for best suspense/thriller. His latest, “Light of Day” will be on the bookstands soon.

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