Economic effects of legalized gambling

The introduction of gambling into a community has various effects on local businesses. In a lot of cases new river boats are introduced in areas that are economically depressed in hopes of reviving the community. Supporters of legalized gambling feel that the casinos increase tourism and causes growth in the retail sales industry, and restaurants. Most casinos are not succeeding at the expense of other local businesses. In fact, they actually add to their economies. …

…with first-class entertainment because they are world class establishments, and local businesses cannot compete with this. Every dollar spent in casinos is a dollar not spent in local restaurants, retail shops, and theaters. If the casinos do improve the economy for local businesses, what is to say that they won't suddenly leave the area? If they do decide to leave, they will be leaving behind broken promises along with unfulfilled forecasts of a great future.