Should Rhode Islanders have the opportunity to amend the State Constitution to allow Twin River and Newport Grand to become full casinos?  Members of the Senate Committee on Constitutional & Regulatory Issues will meet Wednesday night to discuss the possibility of placing it on the ballot in 2010.

     I hope a casino gambling question is placed on the ballot in 2010.  Whether citizens vote yes or no, it never hurts to have input from the voters.  The way the question is written, I would definitely vote yes.  As far as I'm concerned, Twin River and Newport Grand are already casinos.  All this question would really do is allow them to add table games, which I don't think is a big deal.  It would likely increase revenue for the state, and help put Twin River on better financial footing, which would end any talk of a bailout.  At some point, there might be talk of further expansion such as hotels or meeting space, but with Twin River's credit rating and financial troubles, I don't see them tackling a project of that magnitude.

     Whether you would vote yes or no isn't the issue.  What is important is that you have a direct say in this controversial decision.