Prince George’s Council Opposes Slots Bill

The Prince George’s County Council is looking to put an end to the slots bill currently working its way through the Maryland General Assembly.

This week, council members said they unanimously oppose a bill to bring slots to in Fort Washington and the National Harbor, according to The Washington Post.

The bill was introduced by Sen. Douglas J.J. Peters (D-Dist. 23) and in the House by Del. Barbara Frush (D-Dist. 22) and would allow for the slot machines and table games in the county, pending voter approval.

While the bill would earmark revenues from the gambling to go to a new regional hospital and economic development fund, council members said the current legislation fails to specify what percentage of revenues.

Obie Patterson (D-Dist.8) of Fort Washington, whose district includes the proposed gambling locations, said the bill wasn’t in the best interest of the county.

“I cannot support the bill the way it is now,” Patterson was quoted in the Post.