ATMs Removed From Gambling Areas, Australian Senator Proposes
Australian senator Nick Xenophon, a noted opponent of gambling, has proposed a bill banning ATMs from locations containing gambling machines. Xenophon feels that gamblers who wish to use an ATM are problem gamblers, who must be stopped for their own good.
He cited Tasmania as an example of an area without easy access to cash withdrawals around gaming facilities, and claimed Tasmanian losses were significantly less per capita than mainland Australia.
Xenophon went on to assert that there are 250,000 problem gamblers in the country, and that, for every problem gambler, seven other people on average are affected, meaning 10% of Australia is injured by problem gambling.
Xenophon's numbers reveal the demagogue in him. No definition is given as to what constitutes problem gambling, nor what comprises a negative effect on another person. Indeed, Xenophon seems to feel anyone using an ATM to withdraw funds for gambling is automatically a problem gambler; he states, "Non-problem gamblers don't need to use an ATM.'
He recognizes that the establishments he is seeking to deny ATMs are largely bars, clubs, and restaurants, but does not mind preventing those customers who wish to drink or eat access to cash.
Furthermore, by his argument, are not patrons who withdraw cash for drinking alcoholics? What percentage of Australians are problem drinkers, and how many subsidiary effects are felt in relation to alcoholism? Are those who take cash to buy a sandwich obese?
Xenophon should read the studies, including one just concluded in his own country, that indicate problem gambling is merely a symptom of deeper mental distress, and should be treated by therapy rather by limiting gambling access.
Clearly, Xenophon has an agenda, and he is willing to manipulate facts and create numbers to achieve his program. Here's hoping his bill dies a quiet and lonely death.
