Commonwealth Policy Center

The Republican-led legislature legalized video slot machines last week but they really didn’t consider the bigger picture and left many questions unanswered like: Can a business be considered just that sends patrons out the door with empty pockets and having nothing to show for it? Does the casino mentality contribute to a better work ethic? Does it foster the idea of prudence in finances? Does it foster goodwill and love of neighbor? Or is it the opposite? We live in a commonwealth. This means that we share a common geography, natural resources, freedoms, and economic opportunities to build wealth for ourselves and our families. A commonwealth is a good idea. But if we insist on being called a commonwealth, we ought to collectively protect it and keep out the things that chisel away at our well-being.