R.I. can do better than IGT’s weak sales pitch

7/18/2020

The unprecedented proposal by IGT for a 20-year no-bid gaming contract has all along seemed a huge advantage for that firm to the obvious detriment of the state.

If Rep. Blake Filippi’s figures are correct, this contract would amount to a blatant giveaway, especially in light of the fact that almost all other states buy rather than lease their terminals.

Doesn’t it go without saying that it is incumbent upon state leaders to ensure the best terms available for this lucrative agreement? What is the downside for Rhode Island if competitive bids are sought?

The sales pitch by IGT is, in a word, weak. Such a one-sided proposal, embraced by Governor Raimondo and others in state government, leads this taxpayer to ask: Whose nest is being feathered here?

Steven Artigas, Westerly
Editorial, The Providence Journal
https://www.providencejournal.com/opinion/20200718/letters-on-racism-igt-team-names-reparations

About rhode island house republicans

In 1636, Roger Williams, founder of Rhode Island, established the first working model of Democracy after being banished from Massachusetts for his “extreme views” concerning freedom of speech and religion. Thomas Jefferson and John Adams publicly acknowledged Williams as the originator of these concepts, along with the freedom of public assembly, in the First Amendment in the United States Constitution. Today, Rhode Island House Republicans uphold the liberties designed by our Founders and preserved in our Constitution, and are the primary legislative body promoting lean government, fighting for lower taxes, and advocating for initiatives and policies that improve the economy and in turn, the lives of Rhode Islanders. As members of a part-time assembly, we are small business owners, retired educators, community activists, lawyers, farmers, military service veterans, volunteers, former local officials, retired social workers, coaches, musicians, churchgoers and board directors -- bringing these community engagement and professional experiences to our work, on your behalf, at the Rhode Island State House.

IGT/Twin River Proposed Gaming Contract