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State House Dome: AG, Executive Council critical of liquor chief
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By TOM FAHEY
State House Bureau Chief
10 hours, 2 minutes ago
Attorney General Michael Delaney and members of the Executive Council this morning criticized Liquor Commission Enforcement Chief Eddie Edwards for his public statements about a high-profile criminal investigation.
Disturbing, improper and unprofessional were their assessments of the way Edwards has handled himself.
Edwards has appeared on television and in the press discussing details of the allegations that led to a paid leave for Liquor Commissioner Mark Bodi. He said this morning he has discussed his end of the incident, an administrative case that is now closed, and not the criminal probe.
The investigation involves alleged interference in an enforcement action against a Keene bar, and has touched on alleged pressure brought by Rep. Daniel Eaton, D-Stoddard, as well as actions Bodi took.
"Our office is certainly not accustomed to having heads of law enforcement agencies speaking publicly and drawing conclusions during the course of an investigation being conducted by the Attorney General's Office," Delaney said. "I do not believe Chief Edwards has distinguished himself professionally in how he has handled this matter."
Councilor John Shea, D-Nelson, was also upset.
"I'm more than disturbed with Mr. Edwards comments made publicly while there's an investigation going on," he said. "I think that's unprofessional for him to comment publicly."Councilor Raymond Wieczorek, R-Manchester, asked whether Delaney can take any action against Edwards.
"My job is to proceed forward and assure we complete a thorough investigation," he said.
"What he's doing isn't proper," Wieczorek said. "I would hope somebody would tell him."
Edwards responded this morning that his comments have been limited to the three-month old administrative case against the Railroad Tavern and its owner, Randy Filiault and his wife.
"There is a link between the two cases, but I've been I'm speaking about the administrative case. I've refused to comment on anything that has to do with the Attorney General's case," Edwards said.The Filiaults surrendered their license and agreed stay out of the liquor business for five years. During interviews, Edwards said the couple brought in "outside influences" while he investigated a complaint they over-served a customer.
Edwards said that no one has told him they have a problem with how he has comported himself since the public spotlight fell on the case.
Delaney said the investigation is a matter of highest priority treatment in his office. He said when the probe ends, he'll be able to discuss whether there is anything to the allegations, and whether it would be most appropriate to pursue criminal prosecution or ethics complaints, either at the Legislature or through the Executive Branch Code of Ethics.
Gov. John Lynch, who referred allegations to Delaney's office and asked Bodi to take the paid leave, said the liquor commission is running well in Bodi's absence thanks to work by the other two commissioners.
►Norelli says no action until interference probe complete
►Official: NH rep intruded in probe (36)
EDITOR'S NOTE: The rest of the Sunday, March 7, 2010, column continues below.
Gov. John Lynch said Friday he's got big concerns about how fast gambling could spread once slots get a foothold.
He noted that the number of proposed slot machine parlors has been steadily growing in bills lawmakers review. From slots at four race tracks in the first attempts more than 15 years ago, the crowd has grown to include race tracks, two casinos in the North Country and a resort casino in Hudson. New Hampshire Motor Speedway wants in on the action now, too.
"Before there was one slot machine purchased, it was basically all over New Hampshire," Lynch told the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce. As budget troubles go through the usual cycle over the next 20 years, he said, "I worry about the proliferation of expanded gambling. And that may be something that's OK with some of you, but I think we have to think seriously about whether that's the kind of state we want, and whether that's the kind of state we want to give the next generation." Depending on the June report from a special gaming study commission, would Lynch be open to a pilot program? To him, that's like saying someone is a little bit pregnant.
"Some have tried to portray the possibility of a pilot program. It's not possible," he said.
The Chamber luncheon was the same venue where Lynch announced he will actively advocate for repeal of the LLC tax, but insisted it be part of a wholesale review of business taxation and a solution to the state's budget problems.
Worth noting, Lynch stated, "We're going to go forward without a sales or an income tax here in New Hampshire."
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The Senate Ways and Means committee voted Wednesday 7-0 to recommend repeal of the campground tax, as it's become known. In the 2010-11 budget bill, campsites were included as taxable rental space under the law that has long included meals and hotel rooms.
A double insult to the campground owners was the fact that the tax not only sucked in their business for the first time, but simultaneously went to 9 percent on receipts.
The tax change, passed the same night the LLC tax went through, was supposed to raise an extra $31 million. Collections of the tax are 10 percent below projections through the first eight months of the year.
The repeal of the campground tax is all that's left of a Republican sponsored bill, SB 474, that also sought to repeal the new, higher rate.
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Steve Arnold, spokesman for the New England Police Benevolent Association, which represents the officers, said the bill doesn't contain the money that's needed to handle the outflow of new prisoners.
"The plan is to cut costs and spend the money after we save it. What kind of plan is that?" Arnold asked. "These guys are not coming out of prison to head to jobs. They'll be at homeless shelters, cars, you name it. They have to go somewhere. They're going to go to our neighborhoods." SB 500 plans to release most non-violent offenders after they have served 120 percent of their minimum sentence, assuming good behavior. The aim is to provide gradual transitions to freedom, counseling and substance abuse treatment when appropriate, and to cut down on the current recidivism rate, which sees nearly half of all paroled inmates return to prison.
That, say Lynch and bill supporters from both parties, will save on the $30,000 per head per year cost of housing prisoners. With the reduction in prison population, the need for more prison space also will be avoided, they claim.
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NH Working would allow use of unemployment funds to cover the lost pay for workers cut back to part-time work. The aim is to keep people on the job, and to make it easier for businesses to expand with experienced workers when the economy recovers. The bill passed its initial Senate vote, but now goes through Finance review.
The hospital cost control proposal by Senate Majority Leader Maggie Hassan, D-Exeter, was dialed back a bit. The plan to set up a three-person commission to review and set hospital rates statewide now will be a panel that makes recommendations on what procedures should cost at each hospital, based on its fixed costs, percentage of care it delivers to poor people and other factors.
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There's another one, the last until fall elections, on Tuesday in the Lancaster area to replace former Democratic Rep. Scott Merrick. It pits former Rep. John Tholl, R-Whitefield, against John Roberge, D-Northumberland.
State GOP spokesman Ryan Williams pointed out last week that the party has won six of seven held since January 2009.
"We're trying to make it seven out of eight," Williams said.
During the 2005-06 legislative session, Democrats won in seven of eight special elections.
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House Assistant Republican Leader Rep. David Hess, also of Hooksett, will move into Boutin's seat on the Ways and Means Committee. He retains his seat on Local and Regulated Revenues, which has pretty much wrapped up business, he said.
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"Importing drugs from Canada makes such a great sound bite, that even though this bill accomplishes nothing, the minority recommends passing it so we can brag about it during this election year," wrote Rep. Joel Winters, D-Manchester. So, lawmakers can soothe voter anger by bragging in an election year that they voted to accomplish nothing.
The bill is headed for the dust bin. The House Commerce Committee voted 12-4 to recommend killing the bill, citing concerns about safety from misbranded or adulterated drugs that sneak into Canada via the Internet.
The majority agreed that the bill doesn't change much, since the federal government has said it will not prosecute individuals who import three months or less supplies of drugs for personal use.
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Rep. Gene Chandler, R-Bartlett, is fighting the ban that Democratic lawmakers have already declined once to change. His bill, HB 1693, would bar the Legislative Facilities Committee from putting a ban in effect, and would repeal the existing one.
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The Demers Group's annual fundraiser for the Children's Hospital at Dartmouth is actually being held on St. Patrick's Day itself this year. But after years as a breakfast event, it's become a corned beef and cabbage luncheon. The crowd at the Grappone Center usually numbers between 400 and 500, Jim Demers said. Tickets are $50.
Two regulars returning this year are emcee Scott Spradling and Senate President Sylvia Larsen, who may or may not inflict her version of an Irish brogue on attendees.
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Tom Fahey is State House bureau chief for New Hampshire Union Leader and Sunday News.
Times may be changing for LLC tax (8)
State layoffs loom again to fill gap (7)
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State House Dome: Balanced budget? Depends on whom you ask
State House Dome: GOP fuming over gun-ban issue
State House Dome: Groups 'armed' for weapons bill
State House Dome: Weapons ban enforcement mulled
State House Dome: Will LLC tax late payers catch a break?
State House Dome: Full house expected at tax hearing
State House Dome: Right-to-know violators: Pay $1,000 or resign
State House Dome: Lawmakers eat free thanks to gaming
State House Dome: No rush to state negotiating table
State union cozying up to GOP (23)
Shhh, they're talking income tax (31)
YOUR COMMENTS
Well, this one has spun off to La-La Land.
The racist digs, the crackpot "crimes," the personal craziness and pay back. The political snot throwing. And to find the top of the heap in state government wallowing in it.
Amazing. And this is an election year.
I think my work here is done.
With one other thing. Delaney - everyone expected a lot better from you.
- Zing, NH
I am requesting the Attorney General and the Executive Council actually outline what Chief Edwards did wrong. I am quite upset (especially by Ray, who I once respected and voted for!) for making these comments without outlining what law or rule the chief violated. This is quite disturbing that these ELECTED officials can make these comments without even providing the voting public with the law or rule being violated. Furthermore, what kind of Governor would ask the Attorney Generla to opine in public on a criminal investigation. Sounds like Mr. Lynch is trying to Lynch Mr. Edwards!
- Jackie O, Newport
I seem to remember John Lynch's daughter being arrested at UNH a few years ago. The officer that arrested Lynch's daughter has a father (I know what a stretch). His father works for the NH Division of Liquor Enforcement as a Sergeant. There has always been rumors that Lynch is still upset about this embarressing incident and that he would one day get back at Chief Edwards for his predecessor hiring this sergeant. That is right; Aiden Moore hired this investigator knowing full-well one day his son would arrest Governor Lynch's daughter.
- Dogood, Hopkinton
To Sir, Have you been drinking:
The felony you are asking about is Contempt of a Court Order (A Search Warrant) and Destruction of Physical Evidence! You can find these in the NH criminal code.
Hope this answers your question.
- Don Julio, Hampton
Liquor Investigator's ARE Police Officer's Paul from Madison. They attend the same academy as every other cop. They are deserving of as much respect as any other officer. To the person who things cops don't risk their lives....do you go to your job and wear a bullet proof vest and a gun? Don't think so. Before you spread hate for cops...remember it's the police officer who protects your kids and family from sexual predators, felons, and other criminals. I wanna see how quickly you want an officer's when something bad goes down and you need help. I can hear you crying now....
- William Trager, Manchester, NH
"Hey Eddie can you get my pot back that was siezed from my house by the cops the other day, Zing Says its legal to get it back".
- Al Sharpton, Queens NY
Don Julio, I do not believe it was the Rep. who told Edwards to return the tapes but Bodi,Edwards boss.If he had refused he could have been fired for insubordination.He did the correct thing and complied with the order and then brought the matter it to the attention of the proper authorities.This was in the initial article.The improper behavior came allegedly from Eaton and Bodi not Edwards who had to comply with his supervisor's orders or risk termination.From the comments of Bodi in the 1st article it certainly sounds like there was a lot of pressure placed on him from a public official who may have power over the agency's budget as well as other aspects of the liquor commission.You might want to read the 1st article.
- Jim, manch. nh
Ladies and Gentleman…if there were a link in a dictionary to the word, “Karma” – this story would be directly attached.
This disingenuous, bombastic, dolt personified the proverbial “peter principle”! Kudos to the Attorney General’s Office for their leadership in helping the State and the law enforcement profession finally try to reign in this horrendous mess. Enough is Enough! How anyone could be allowed to completely dismantle and destroy a viable law enforcement agency with an important regulatory function due to their own insecurities and ineptitude can never be explained. Stop the insanity! There are signs of life!
- M Arktis, Portsmouth
For all you folks that are sooo educated regarding liquor laws I have pasted the current law regarding investigators below. I would recommend our AG and the majority of thee police officers posting review this law. Each investiation involving liquor laws is conducted under the direcvtion of the COMMISSION!!!! Not the chief of enforcement; hence the commission is being held responsible. I guess following the rule of law is not important if you have a personal issue against Mr Edwards. I hope you enjoy reading the law and I pray I have educated a few of you future state representatives!
176:9 Liquor Investigator; Training. –
I. The commission may, subject to rules adopted by the director of personnel, employ and dismiss liquor investigators. Liquor investigators shall, under the direction of the commission (EMPHASIS ADDED FOR THE WICKED NH SMART PEOPS), investigate any or all matters arising under this title.
- K. M., Nashua
It's global warming Eddie, Or it's MANBEARPIG!
- Al Gore, Nashville TN
To "Rich" from Manchester -
You seem to think I'm the one making these posts and you couldn't be further from the truth. But then again as it appears from reading your numerous posts, you don't care to verfiy your information.
Quite frankly the only reason I even know about this post is because someone told me about it.
I don't know who you are nor care to debate anything with you in this venue. However; I'm certain you know how to reach me should you choose to discuss this in an adult fashon and to my face rather than vent your unsubstantiated and untruthful comments in a blog where you are unable to be confronted in person. Let alone about something that does not specifically involve me.
I will be more than happy to provide you with accurate and truthful information rather than your own false judgments.
As you see "Rich" my full name is posted which should give you some indication that I have no problem putting my name behind my words. Feel free to contact me at any time. You know where to reach me.
- Todd Feyrer, Rindge
Yo! Yo! People of NH. Ignore my previous indescetions and give me a pass on this one. I would hate to file a lawsuit.
Thank you! See you all at the beach this summer. Stop by and say Hi
- Future Senator Eddie Edwards, Hampton
I want to point out a fact that I am sure MADD, SADD, and New Futures would love to hear about in print.
My friend is a bar owner and Eddie Edwards needed the bar owners to support him so that Liquor Enforcement did not go to the Dept. of Safety. This would have ruined Edwards' soverign reign and made him accountable. Edwards is now giving warnings for failure of underage compliance checks. This is the new policy and a way of "payimg" for industry support. This should be looked into by the press.
My bar owner friend is not as concerned now about serving a minor, because the result will be a warning. Glad we are looking out for the youth in this State and not for our own behinds, huh, Eddie.
- Don Julio, Hampton
Excuse me, $.
What do you understand, that no one else does?
About this felony for returning evidence?
Just, please, what law?
You know, otherwise you are just a bar owner who got shut down (for no good reason, of course). In the alternative, you could explain that.
Seriously. Don't want to see you cut off. Used to be a bar in Keene where that wasn't a problem. Maybe you know one like that?
- Sir, have you been drinking tonight?, NH
Thank you Governor Lynch, and distinguished members of the executive counsel who are truly doing the work of the people of New Hampshire today. I see a light going on under the State House Dome, Time for this inept joke on our fine State to go. “Chief” Edwards committed a felony crime by returning legally seized property unlawfully, and in true Edwards fashion, dumping the blame on the Chairman of the Liquor Commission who does not have any authority to force Edwards to do it. Just ask the Rockingham county Sheriff and his chief deputy who were removed for a far less infraction. If Edwards is so smart and the people of Antrim are crying over the loss of the old police department, I have a bridge for sale in NYC. This is nothing new for Edwards. He is distinguished as the only law enforcement Chief who will go to the press with Internal Investigations, giving facts and releasing the names of involved officers while the case is ongoing. Hello? I do not know the new Attorney General but he is the only person so far to stand up to Bullying Edwards and his history of lawsuits. Lets talk about this Eddie, Who cares about following the law right, (he has them sealed by the court after he gets paid) to further Eddie for Eddie intimidating anyone standing in his way with threats of discrimination. What is it that Trump says at the end of his show? Time to return to you former profession Eddie, however you will be on the other side of the bars this time for lets say 3 ½- to 7 years!
- advertising $ from NHSLC is cover up in print, Manchester
It is so embarassing when we get a basic fact wrong. Like it wasn't Rep. Eaton, the ex police chief, who, as far as we know at this point, got involved in returning the damning video tape. That was Edwards' boss; Commissioner Bodi.
Or am I missing something? Or are we?
Does anyone know if Boss Eaton was in touch with Boss Bodi on this?
I bet somebody does.
Will they tell us? Let's ask the AG, or Boss Lynch. Or is the UL doing that for us?
Stranger and stranger.
- Zing, NH
What up DAWG, What go around come around!
- Eddie Edwards, Hampton
If you worked for Eddie Edwards and were in front of him and the charges against you were you acted Improperly, unprofessionaly and exhibited disturbing type behavior you'd be investigated and forced to resign or quit. Edwards preachs accountability, the we are held to higher standards spiel, Nevered wanted to hear excuses, No one wants to hear your excuses either Chief.
Take it like you gave it to others. If you are so above-board do not spin this mess you are totally to blame for this and no one else. Take ownership of it Chief just like you made others, when they had to stand before you.
- Whitney, Manchester
Apparently, the UL doesn't want to post anything negative about Eddie Edwards. I have heard from several people who have posted about this nightmare and they have not made it onto the UL post.
Maybe, the UL doesn't want to tarnish the image of one of their "Forty under Forty" up and coming leaders in our great State.
Jason Smith
Sandown
- Jason Smith, Sandown
Well it appears my previous comment must not meet the political agenda of the Union Leader as it has not been posted!
Jim from Manchester. Do we ignore the fact that Mr. Edwards had a duty to tell the representative "no" in regards to returning evidence. This is his JOB. He is the person who is supposed to stand up for justice and not be influenced by outside political sources. Edwards failed his people and the State when he released this evidence. He then turns around and makes accusations which covers up his improprieties. It is people like you who allow him to continue his chirade.
Good for the AG!
- Don Julio, Hampton
How interesting for the UL to include this incredible story of Eddie Edwards with a gaming story! Let's not bash this winner of the 'Forty under Forty' from the UL too harshly, let's include it with a story about gambling; a hot topic.
Seriously, this is what happens when an incompetent person goes from being a bouncer at the Dynasty to 'Chief of the most powerful State law enforcement agency in the State' in less than 15 years. Not only did 'Chief' Edwards illegally order the return of evidence seized pursuant to a valid search warrant, he didn't even have the intestinal fortitude to do anything about it. He asked his subordinates to file a greivence with their union! What leadership!
Leading contender for another 'Forty under Forty'!
Jason Smith
Sandown
- Jason Smith, Sandown
Now let me understand this.You have a Representative allegedly attempting to influence an investigation into a local business(BAR)about over serving a customer.This Rep. allegedly tried to help out the bar owner inappropriately.Then the Liquor Commissioner tries to interfere in the investigation (I assume at the request of the Rep.)So what happens?The Liquor Enforcement Chief who brought this impropriety to light gets slapped down by the AG and the Council.How about that.I wonder why the Rep. attempted to influence this matter.Was the owner a friend or is the Rep. just a very regular customer of the establishment?Who knows.Only in NH will the individual who brings the impropriety to the attention of the proper authorities be punished.I say GOOD JOB Mr.Edward and don't back down from you're principals.
- Jim, manch. nh
I'm not a police officer, disgruntled or otherwise. I'm the former owner of an Antrim business. Now do you remember me, Todd?
How far is it from Rindge to Antrim, anyway? Far enough that it is tough to respond in an emergency? Far enough that taxpayers might reasonably wonder why their police cruiser was used to make that daily commute?
- Rich, Manchester
To all those referring to the liquor guys as police officers: Could you please stop? It defiles and insults all of the actual police officers out there.
- Paul, Madison
Edward’s “Army” has accomplished more professionally and is more educated than the disgruntled officers following around his “Army’s” careers.
I’d rather not ask “Antrim” as “Antrim” is still bitter that the ex-chief (who chose to leave) was no longer able to call an on-duty officer to drive him home from a bar that over-served him. Miss those “Good Ole Days” when laws and peoples tax money spent was overlooked as it was in “trusted hands”.
I think it’s time for someone to get a life outside of following articles around to bash certain individuals that are doing the right thing and move on.
- martyD, Antrim
To William Trager of Manchester NH...Thanks for a hearty belly laugh! Aside from the "potential danger" there is not one police officer in the State of New Hampshire or anywhere else in the United States that places his or her life on the line every day.
- art, Hampstead
To all who bash liquor enforcement officials...I have a family member who works for Liquor. He is a great Cop and is dedicated to the State of NH. He and his fellow co-workers are not some "rejects" or "outcasts." Many of them are highly respected, have served communities, and risked their lives everyday just as any police officer does. Please remember that.
- William Trager, Manchester NH
NO more gambling. Would everyone who wants more gambling just drive to Rockingham and walk around the place.
All of your questions will be answered.
Degenerates, unemployed, drunks, drug addicts, homeless, and used car lot owners. The place is a mass of human refuge.
You think the drug use and home break ins are bad now? Wait till thousands of t-h-o-s-e types of people come in from Lowell, Lawrence, and Methuen everyday!
- Steve R, Salem NH
Shame on the Union Leader to post a comment from a disgruntled police officer that could never accomplish 1/2 of what Edwards "Army" has done - professionally or degrees of education.
I really don't need to ask any opinion from Antrim as they are still bitter that the Police Chief could no longer call an on-duty officer to drive them home when drunk at a bar that's overserving like the "good ole days". Can you please move on and get a life instead of following individuals careers that are doing something for themselves?
- MartyD-BBrown-Donovan, Antrim
Hey John in Newmarket can you tell me what has gotten cheaper since you've moved to NH? What has gotten cheaper in any other state? Thought so
- james, manchester
Ouch!
Eddie Edwards has done the naughty of getting himself into the political arena of law enforcement - the no-man's-land where some politicians get away with throwing their weight around.
Where I find most offense is the attorney general's comment regarding Edwards - it seems politically motivated. After all, he is the appointee of a democratic governor, whose party does not like the bad PR being laid on one of its stalwarts (Dan Eaton).
Mark Bodi is apparently an embarassment to Lynch as well. Appointed 3 years ago, by Lynch, with a business background, the last thing Lynch needs is to have to suspend his guy - or a clear idea of why getting out there. Certainly not without going through the governor's spin-machine.
The executive counsel is something else. They are the most political animals in state government - usually kept pretty much in their cage and you have to wonder if that's not a good idea. They surely don't want politicians looked at too closely. That would be a bad habit to allow to fester.
By accounts heretofore, Edwards has done a great job as NHSLC LE chief. He has brought the division forward in almost all aspects - including separation from the cronyism and blind eyes of the past.
When you talk about corruption in state government, the money and influence that attaches to liquor sales is where it most comes to the fore. Edwards has shown he is not intimidated by virtue of his job description.
Nor has he broken the rules. The import of this story is there is a "shut up" coming down from above.
Does that serve the people's right to know, or the interests of those who do not want you to know it?
- Zing, NH
Sandy, Thornton: Well Said!
adavids, londonderry:
If you dislike so much living in our 'joke of a state' (your words), why don't you move back?! We will not miss you. Might even help you pack!
- sally, candia, nh
Its about time that the AGs Office starts reining in robo cops like Edwards. Ayotte has covered up for them her own term. Now the state leadership can see the end results of allowing those with a badge and unchecked power to enable these primondonnas. Eliminate both these positions, decertify Edwards at Police Standards and send them both down the road. Lord knows we can better utilize the roughly $400,000 dollars we expends on these hacks.
- Jay, Concord
Sandy, Thornton: WELL SAID!
adavids, londonderry: If you dislike living here so much in our 'big joke of a state' (your words), why don't you move back?! We will not miss you. Maybe even help you pack!
- sally, candia, nh
Once again, there is no need for Eddie Edwards' personal army. Get rid of the LE police, and turn those duties over to the state police and local departments.
LE is well known in the law enforcement community as the "employer of last resort" for officers who have been run out of small town due to their inability to get along with the public and other officers. If you know anyone in Antrim, ask them.
I expect Edwards to hire New Boston's COP soon.
- Rich, Manchester
Hey Sandy from Thorton, you are spot-on with your facts and responses.
- JeffD, Salem
Sandy,
Apparently you've gotten hold of some old data;
"To date, with nine of a maximum fourteen casinos in operation, legalized gaming in the Commonwealth has created over 8,000 new living wage jobs, revenue that has provided property tax reduction in each of the past two years for all homeowners, and funds that have reinvigorated Pennsylvania’s horse racing industry." (from Pennsylvania's Gaming Control Board)
As for the bulk of their employees coming from Atlantic City, that is another erroneous post. They have RECENTLY targeted many laid-off employees from Atlantic City for table games which were just recently legalized in Pennsylvania. This estimated 4,000 - 4,500 new positions are in addition to the 8,000 already employed.
As for the "whole new bureaucracy" to alleviate gambling addiction...what is the problem with that? Senate Bill 489, just like last year's gambling bill, also calls for 1% of net revenues towards gambling addiction treatment. This is a critical program and should have already been available in this state since we have gambling of all types here.
The Bill also sets aside the following;
(1) 30% of the net machine income generated by video lottery machines shall be paid to the general fund of the state.
(2) 3% shall be paid to the municipality in which the operator licensee operates video lottery machines.
(3) 2% shall be paid to the state treasurer to be divided equally amongst each county in the state for property tax relief.
(4) 1% of the net machine income shall be divided equally amongst each of the municipalities of New Hampshire which abut a municipality in which the operator licensee operates video lottery machines.
(5) 1% shall be credited to the commissioner of the department of health and human services to support programs to treat problem gambling.
(6) 0.5% shall be credited to the division of travel and tourism development
(7) 0.5% shall be paid equally to the police standards and the fire standards for reimbursement of expenses incurred for certification training and salaries.
(8)(A) 1% shall be paid to the state treasurer and credited to the racing and charitable gaming commission
Finally, you conveniently mention the unemployment rate in Michigan, a state which was decimated by the collapse of the auto industry, joblessness, and bankruptcies. Entire neighborhoods in Detroit were purchased on auction from European investors for pennies on the dollar. You honestly want to blame gambling for that disaster? That's just plain old BS. BTW, slot machines are only legal in tribal casinos in Michigan, yet they provide jobs for 4,000.
To use the arguement that hundreds of millions of dollars to the state annually is worthless because you are convinced the government will spend more is really convoluted thinking.
- Bob Black, Hooksett
Nice try Bob Black: There is no denying that the states get revenue from gambling – My point is, that they don’t use it to REDUCE THEIR DEFICITS – they use the revenue to find new social programs to SPEND MORE on! The point is that the states with the highest deficits are almost always those with gambling casinos – curious. Most of the jobs available in Penn. (the estimate was 5K jobs not 8K) were taken by laid off casino workers from Atlantic City casinos (several thousands have been laid off from the casinos in Atlantic City, Foxwoods et.al.). Oh, and other jobs were created in Pennsylvania: in state government in the Departments of Health, Revenue and Agriculture along with the state Gaming Control Board – they now have an official week of awareness called “Problem Gambling Awareness Week” – in fact, it’s this week! It’s for gambling problem assistance and they have created a whole new bureaucracy (with new taxes to pay for it) to provide access to counseling for people being ruined emotionally and financially by gambling. How nice. We want to you gamble so give us money so we can spend more money and grow state government to counsel you for that nasty gambling addiction we helped you get.
As to jobs? Let’s just take a for instance: For instance, Michigan is the current home of 23 gambling casinos and the legislature wants to build 6 more. Now, as you may know we are in the midst of a great recession and unemployment is very high – in Michigan it is currently almost 15%! And they have 23 casinos – they also have the wonderful cities of Lansing, Dearborn, Detroit and Flint. Home of the UAW, but no more automotive industry. You’d think that they would have been able to reduce their unemployment with 23 casino’s, wouldn’t you? But here is Michigan with 15% unemployment and in the top ten of states nearly bankrupt. But it’s got 23 casino’s! If you look at the statistics from just about every source including CNN Money, for every 1 job created by a casino two to three others in the retail industry are lost. So, to say that gambling is the answer to a state’s financial problems OR that gambling is a jobs bill – are both not entirely true statements.
- Sandy, Thornton
People who go to Rockingham Park are there to gamble, period - what's the difference if they put in on a horse or in a slot machine?
- Zoot, Derry
John from Newmarket: Foxwoods is in Connecticut not Massachusetts.
- Jay Collins, Laconia
Lets take inventory; You have lost your job, your house has been foreclosed, your health insurance has been cancelled, you drive a Toyota, and gambling is going to make the quality of life deteriorate in New Hampshire?
- Carl, Rochester
Sandy in Thornton,
Ironic you speak of "cutting & pasting" since it's actually what you continue doing. My facts come from my own extensive research I've done with multiple studies and data from numerous, unbiased sources.
As I mentioned the last time you wrote of these state "budget issues"--exactly what is your point? The country is in a massive recession if you haven't heard. Slot machine revenues are often times the third largest contributor to many state's budgets, behind only income & sales taxes. If your claim is that the billions of dollars annually from gambling does NOT help provide many states with necessary revenue, then you are seriously delusional.
As for job creation, of which you conveniently dismiss...the expansion of gambling will create thousands of well-paying jobs across the state--just as Pennsylvania employs 8,000 employees due to slot machines. Perhaps you haven't heard, but New Hampshire's unemployment rate just climbed to 7% while the national rate droped slightly.
- Bob Black, Hooksett, NH
Gambling with revenue used to cut taxes is good. Gambling with revenue used to pay for more spending is bad. It's very simple.
- Glen, Manchester, NH
I don't think gambling at the Rock is a good idea. You're fooling yourself if you really think it will create a substantial amount of good jobs, and the traffic and crime it will create will offset any economic benefits. I understand that owners of the Rockingham Park need to look at other revenue options, but Salem residents will regret supporting gambling there if the bill ever passes Lynch.
- Jonathan McNeal, Salem, NH
Chandler from Rochester - Keno gambling machines are widely available through out MA. It's been restricted to establishments that also serve alcohol (Gotta keep the players common sense from kicking in) but there's talk of expanding it beyond that limitation. Also slots etc.. are available at numerous places dotting the state. Ever hear of Foxwoods?
- John, Newmarket
my tax bill is up$2000.. since moving up here..nothing has improved..this state is a big joke..always has been.. I hope they repeal this foolish gambling tax if they bring in expanded gambling.. or just shut down all gambling in the state and have a sales tax..the choice is yours idiots..
- adavids, londonderry
Aaahh, John from Newmarket: You need to get your eyes checked. You claim to see "Seedy rows of machines" in MA, implying that they are gambling machines. Did you know that slot machines are not legal in MA? Nice try at a scare tactic, though.
- Chandler, Rochester, NH
Bob Black, Hooksett: As I pointed out when you cut and pasted your little “fact sheet” last week, your facts are a little skewed. While those states may have used initial gambling revenues to offset taxes at one time, consider this from Business Week and the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities: Of the 43 states facing a financial crisis, Maine is ranked 18th with a 260M projected shortfall in 2010; (New Hampshire is 19th on the list with a 250M shortfall, by the way); Delaware 14th with a 350 million shortfall (2010); not far behind are Pennsylvania with dire warnings forecast for drastic increases in property taxes and electric rates due to deregulation; Tennessee (another gambling state); Massachusetts (16th) with a 2.6 Billion projected shortfall; West Virginia has a 120 million shortfall; only South Dakota has managed to remain close to the bottom of the list. Why, because my friends after selling gambling as the answer to the budgetary prayers the states NEVER STOPPED SPENDING. They INCREASED spending and expanded all types of welfare and entitlement programs and hired tons of unionized state employees to manage the same.
Now D'Allessandro has the gall to try and pass gambling off as a "jobs bill" which is laughable to the extreme - unless you're dying to be a (union) cafeteria worker, a chamber maid or a maintenance person, don't bet on it. All the good jobs go to the folks already employed by the casino racketeers.
- Sandy, Thornton
Its time that we welcomed a 'Rockingham Casino' to NH. Salem, NH is the perfect place; its just off Route 93 and on the MA border. This will be a boom to the local economy & a virtual supernova that bridges us to the end of the recession and brings in needed jobs. Also, future recessions will be muted due to the permanent jobs created. This 'Rockingham Casino' will bring in millions of dollars to the State. MA, ME and VT and CT residents will flock to NH pristine sea shore and southern NH.
- Alex Ploud, Concord, NH
Hey Bob Black,
You really bloviate too much. Just remember, Say no to expanded gaming at Rockingham Park!
- JeffD, Salem
I am still waiting for Jeff D. of Salem to give me a budget plan that curbs spending and puts Nh residents back to work.
Jeff doesn't like gambling and that is his choice but we need jobs and passing the gaming bill will put 3000-4000 of our residents to work in good paying jobs.
Call your state rep and tell him/her to pass this bill now.
- Fred F., Salem
It's amazing how many people still try to sell us gambling will cure the states spending problems as they ignore who and what actually got us to this point. The state will be tied in with the gambling industry and the whole thing will be unionized and that certainly seems to be working so well in all other areas of government today. What could go wrong down the road with such a plan after new government growth feeds from the trough? If we pay attention we would know the answer is higher fees and more taxation after a very short time and the gambling industry becomes too big to fail. We will still have a spending problem in the end to deal with and state agencies created to take care of those who lost more than they could afford to loose. Unless you all hate the children and don't want to take care of them when it happens.
- Patriot, poortown
NH is about a decade late in expanded gambling & continues to drag its feet. Delaware has realized over $2.5 BILLION since they adopted slot machines. Crime has not been a factor in the cities which house their racinos (actually dropped in some cases), social problems haven't befallen them, and their thoroughbred racing industry was saved. Pennsylvania just saw gambling earnings to the state at a staggering $1.22 BILLION dollars in the last fiscal year alone! Bangor, Maine residents saw their property taxes decreased directly from slot revenues. Slot machine gambling is now legal in 39 states--and its revenue is often the third largest contributor behind income and sales taxes.
It's easy to make a statement like, "Just say no to gambling" like simpletons on this forum. It's quite another to actually come up with a budget plan that works for the state. Legislators passed a pathetic excuse for a budget over the summer, hiking fees everywhere and dropping vital services. Now we're seeing the effects...an overturning of the $190 million from the medical malpractice fund, a repeal of the LLC tax increase, now the campground room & meals tax is being shelved... Can the ridiculous double-tax of 10% on gambling winnings be far behind?
Enough procrastinating...pass the damn expanded gambling bill already. Every poll has proven unequivocally that the citizens prefer it overwhelmingly to a sales or income tax. GET IT DONE!
- Bob Black, Hooksett
Hey Sam, Hey Jeff.
1) A majority of our Town wants gambling at the Rock. Please do not misstate the truth. Multiple polls over the years on this.
2) Grandmother bought property in Salem in 1925. Since that time, newcomers, politicians and yes planners have mucked the place up.
3) RE Taxes from the Rock might actually pay for a lot of the dumb ideas that are proposed for our town.
4) Don't you care about the real unemployment rate, people are hurting or are you immune to this.
5) Decades ago the parking lots were totally full at the racetrack. I'll bet a lot of neat stuff around this town was funded as a result.
- Bob, Salem
People, the gambling bill actually HAS a tax associated with it: a 39% tax on net slot machine income and net table game income. In other words, this is a 39% tax on the money lost by the casino's customers. Anti-tax fanatics can take some comfort that this tax rate has been reduced even before any bills have been passed. The proposals which died last year both applied a tax rate of 49% to "losings."
Interestingly, the Senate Finance Committee learned in passing at the hearing that slot machines are set to give back about 40% of the money put into them (the proposed 39% tax qualifying as "about 40%".) One or two representatives of the gaming industry testified the average slot machine typically takes in $300/day while paying out $120/day in prizes.
- Timothy Horrigan, Durham, NH
Say No to expanded gaming at Rockingham Park, Save Salem!
- JeffD, Salem
Want to control costs? How does privatizing the liquor commission sound now governor? Pretty good?
You can rid your state of the commission and the egomaniac enforcement department and save lots of money!
- Dave, Portsmouth
No, Bob, the majority do not agree with you on this matter. When you ask "would you like slot machines in your state or a new tax," what do you think the answer will be? We always choose the free lunch, until we figure out how much that lunch actually costs us in other ways.
- Sam, Salem
Finally, Lynch starts to take a stand on something. He's at least noticing the real goal of the gambling lobby. Budget crunches are always a challenge, but dragging the state into a money sewer is no solution. Living in the southern tier and working in MA, I've had the unfortunate benefit of seeing MA's gambling solution. Seedy rows of machines in what would otherwise have been nice establishments. Always with some poor wretches hunched over them hoping for a miracle win that will never come. All they end up doing is throwing what money they had down a hole and downing another drink in hope that something will change. Ya, That's the future I want for NH....NOT!
- John, Newmarket
His concerns are manageable - just say no. He should have concerns about the level of RE taxation. But, that doesn't seem to bother him. Must be nice to live in fantasyland.
- Leo, Canterbury
Pass a gambling bill, taxpayers are hurting. A majority of people agree with me on this matter.
- Bob, Salem
John Stephen would do well to get behind gaming.....let Lynch hang out there as usual not quite knowing what he should do.
- Jay Collins, Laconia
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