Bets are marijuana will be legalized
For those of us who have a little age behind our belts and maybe a little snow on the roof, lets take a walk down memory lane.
Does the term “numbers game” ring a bell? Back then an individual could possibly win money by picking a three digit number. It was simple. Just write down your number or numbers on a piece of paper and give it to a numbers runner along with your wager. If you did win the “bookie” would payout. Back then and still today, it is an illegal activity to do it this way. We can do it legally by betting with the state. One day it is the “numbers game” the next it is playing the “lottery.”
From illegal to legal. Why? Because it benefits the state.
Remember the back rooms of fraternal organizations, bars, taverns and some non-profits who had machines located in them. These machines were clearly marked for amusement only, but on occasion were confiscated and destroyed by the authorities who seized them. The state not to be out done passed legislation paving the way for casinos to open. The machines in the casinos are not marked for amusement only.
From illegal to legal. Why? Because it benefits the state.
While on the subject of wagering let us not forget football season. During the week a betting slip was circulated and one had to pick the winners of college and pro football games. Slips were collected and winners received a payout. The state recently passed legislation to permit wagering on athletic contests in an approved sports parlor.
From illegal to legal. Why? Because it benefits the state.
Speaking of a sure bet, one can make a would-be bet on the legalization of marijuana for recreational use in Pennsylvania. Other states have done so and our elected officials in Harrisburg are looking at the potential for profit to benefit the state. Governor Tom Wolf has dispatched Lieutenant Governor John Fetterman on a “Magical Mystery Tour” of Pennsylvania to conduct town hall meetings to gauge the citizenry as to the prospect of the use of marijuana for recreational purposes becoming legal.
Currently, the odds of legalization of marijuana in Pennsylvania are as follows. One would have to bet $700 to win a $100. Almost a sure thing. With a wager like that before Wolf leaves office marijuana possession and usage will be another activity that once was illegal but now legal.
Why? because it benefits the state.
When the deck is stacked the house, or in this case, the state always wins!
Edward Zadylak
Connellsville