The draw of quick wealth has long characterized gambling which in turn has made the San Francisco Bay Area a prime area for this industry. From card rooms to adjacent tribal casinos which feature what we may call Bay Area slots gambling, including the 9naga, brings in large sums to the economy. At the same time though with these benefits come what should be paid attention to social issues.
Economic Contributions: A Region’s Boost
The gambling industry contributes to Bay Area economy via many channels:
Revenue Generation
Casinos as well as other gambling facilities produce large sums of money, which in turn the state and possibly local governments may tax. These funds go towards public services and infrastructure projects.
Job Creation
Gambling businesses put forth many job opportunities in fields like gaming, hospitality, security, and administration which in turn provides for Bay Area residents.
Tourism and Related Spending
Casinos, which see great attendance at the resort style properties in the Bay Area, in turn see a large number of travelers that put money into play as well as into their hotel stay, restaurants and local attractions.
Support for Local Businesses
Gambling institutions also support local business which in turn fuels the regional economy.
Potential Social Costs: A Juggling Act
While economy may benefit we should also note that there is an issue of social cost in the case of gambling.
Problem Gambling and Addiction
A large issue is that of problem gambling and addiction which in turn causes financial ruin, relationship issues and mental health problems for the individual and family. Also we see that which taxes public resources is the issue of the cost of treating gambling addiction and the issues it brings up.
Crime and Social Disorder
The increase in certain types of crime and social disorder result in an increase in the law enforcement industry and social service agencies. But, there is no direct correlation that puts forth the increase in gambling into the increase of crimes.
Impact on Vulnerable Populations
Lower marginalized and low income groups may bear the brunt of gambling’s negative results.
Regulatory and Enforcement Costs
Strict regulation and enforcement in the gambling industry is a requirement which in turn puts a financial burden on government agencies.
Finding the Balance: The San Francisco Bay Area Gambling
The issue of economic impact of gambling in the San Francisco Bay Area is a very complex issues which has pro and con elements. As we go forward policymakers and community leaders do well to try and strike a balance which sees to it that we get the economic benefits out of gambling. But, at the same time we are doing what we can to reduce the social issues which come with it through responsible regulation, treatment of problem gambling, and public information campaigns. We must study both sides of this economic issue for the better health of the region.