I'm all for the legalization of gambling.

Per Voanews.com, over $1 billion dollars of Super Bowl bets this year were made legally. Nevada lead all states with $155 million worth of legal bets put down on the game. (I'm surprised it's not higher).

The point is that's huge revenue for the state. New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio and New Jersey all were right around $100 million.

There are plenty of gamblers in Southern Utah that have to drive to Mesquite or Wendover to place their bets. Or they have an app, but they have to drive from St. George over across the Nevada state line to use it.

I understand that the Beehive state has always been against gambling. The video below shows the pain and anguish many feel when they bet more than they should:

But adults who want to gamble are going to. Whether they drive a couple hours to Nevada, or do it illegally online somewhere. So why allow Nevada to get all of the tax benefits from Utahns traveling to gamble. Why not regulate it in our state and tax it?

Per voanews.com:

"Every year, the Super Bowl serves to highlight the benefits of legal sports betting," said Bill Miller, the gambling association's president and CEO. "Bettors are transitioning to the protections of the regulated market ... and legal operators are driving needed tax revenue to states across the country."

There are 33 states that have legal sports betting! How long do you think it will take for Utah to legalize and regulate gambling in our state?

Article quoted: https://www.voanews.com/a/super-bowl-bets-surging-in-us-as-states-legalize-gambling-/6955403.html

 

10 Things We're Tired Of Hearing In St. George Utah

Here are 10 things that people in St. George Utah hear a lot, and you probably shouldn't say.

More From KSUB 590/107.7