One of the ironies in all of this is that Frank is a co-sponsor of H.R.
1170, the Comprehensive Awareness of Problem Gambling Act of 2007, of
which the stated purpose is to "address problem gambling" by requiring
"the Secretary of Health and Human Services to carry out a national
campaign to increase knowledge and raise awareness of problem gambling."
Clearly, then, Frank recognizes what a destructive social behavior
gambling is. Yet he appears to be determined to enact legislation to
legalize it.
The purpose of law in human society is, among other things, to "promote
the general welfare" of society, as the United States Constitution duly
notes in its Preamble. It appears that Congress has removed itself
from such a role. Instead, our elected officials have come to value tax
dollars higher than a healthy society. Of course, such revenue then can
be used to fund beloved social programs which deprive individuals of
their self-respect and independence but provide lawmakers with solid
voting blocs intent on keeping the "free" cash flowing their way.
These gambling measures should be opposed vigorously by all American
citizens concerned about maintaining healthy communities. If we did not
we would share the responsibility for the financial and relational
destruction that so frequently occurs in gambling's wake.