The Akron Beacon Journal has jumped on the anti-Issue 6 bandwagon. The Cleveland Plain Dealer, Columbus Dispatch, and Youngstown Vindicator have all voiced their opposition to the ballot measure which would allow casino gambling in the Buckeye State.

The "No on Issue 6 Committee" heradled the announcement today in a press release that read:

Citing loopholes in its language and the creation of "a monopoly license" with profits "flowing out of state," the Akron Beacon Journal today urged Ohioans to vote "no" on State Issue 6 on the Nov. 4 ballot.

The Beacon Journal joined other Ohio newspapers -- including the Columbus Dispatch, Youngstown Vindicator and The Plain Dealer of Cleveland in opposing the issue.

The Beacon Journal editorial pointed out that the proponents are "spending millions on television ads" promising job creation and tax revenues, but it said: "Mind you, none of the money is guaranteed by the amendment, which would grant Lakes Entertainment what amounts to a monopoly license, the profits flowing out of the state."

The Beacon Journal said the promise of a 30 percent tax on gross casino profits was not a sure thing, and said, "Approval of casino-style gambling would open the door to an Indian casino." It noted that "such an Indian casino could not be subject to any state or local taxes. Thus, the 30 percent rate could fall to zero."

In addition to many Ohio newspapers, Issue 6 is opposed by Governor Ted Strickland, U.S. Senator George Voinovich, members of the Ohio General Assembly from both political parties, the Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio, the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, a large group of Ohio clergy, the League of Women Voters of Ohio and others.

"The growing number of newspapers, organizations and prominent Ohioans who are opposed to Issue 6 is evidence to us that Issue 6 is simply a bad deal for the state and its people," the No on Issue 6 Committee said in a statement.

The full Beacon Journal editorial may be viewed at: http://www.ohio.com/editorial/opinions/30733729.html

Paid for by No on Issue 6 Committee, Andy Bowers, Treasurer, 612 N. Park St., Suite 200, Columbus OH 43215.

Source: No on Issue 6 Committee

How do you plan on voting on this measure? While I am normally a proponent of gambling I am leaning "no" on this measure. Without casinos in northeastern Ohio I feel that the measure makes no sense considering we have been the only part of the state that has supported such measures in the past. As a gambler, I would still have to drive hours away and as a taxpayer I think that the casino owners would probably get the better of the average citizen.