"Tribal casino operations near the Twin Cities are well enough established to hold their own against some new competition, meaning that some members of a historically abused and disadvantaged people will continue to benefit.

This editorial board would, however, be more enthusiastic about an expansion plan that included new benefits to the distant and impoverished Indian bands of northern Minnesota, who have not shared fully in the bounty of tribal gaming.

A state casino partnership with the northern tribes was proposed some years back, with this board's support, but did not become law.

Meanwhile, any gambling expansion must be accompanied by an expansion of efforts to mitigate its social costs. Some of the new revenue should be set aside to strengthen compulsive-gambling treatment and prevention programs.

Expanding gambling in Minnesota is not a good idea. But could it, in the end, be among the least-bad alternatives to solve a major budget crisis?"

Get the Story:
Editorial: Gambling's costs must be counted (The Minneapolis Star Tribune 3/29)

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MPR: Minnesota tribes oppose expansion of non-Indian gaming (2/24)