By Rep. John Witt, HD 28
Chairman, Gaming Advisory Council When I was asked to write a guest column for the
Montana Tavern Times, I thought, what the heck, that should be easy.
Then, as I spent the next week traveling across the Hi-Line area in our semi truck hauling grain, I had a lot of time to reflect and think about the topics I wanted to write about. It seemed like it would be easy; until I sat down to write the column. I guess it' easier to compose when you're moving!
As a member of the Gaming Advisory Council it has become very obvious how important the GAC is to both the Gambling Control Division and to the industry as a whole.
The Gaming Advisory Council is a liaison group that acts as a buffer for regulators, the Legislature, the private sector and the public. This is important when there are disagreements or when addressing new legislation. Usually the differences can be worked out prior to administrative or legislative action.
I believe it is necessary to maintain a balance and all sides need to reach a consensus. One side cannot function without the other. When there is a conflict and a consensus cannot be reached, the GAC can "hammer" it out.
It is important to note the GAC is made up of two legislators, one mayor, one county attorney, one Native American and two private sector members, with one representing gaming and the other, taverns. The Council is made up of a wide array of backgrounds and is very aggressive in representing the industry as well as the public.
The problem gambler that gives the industry a black eye is not the only problem. The State of Montana has a dependence on gambling also.
As most of us are aware, Montana always has a need for more money and there are legislators who think of the gaming tax as a way to fund their special interests. It is important for the GAC to keep an eye on the efforts of these legislators' efforts and keep them in check.
It is also important to keep the industry strong and the casino and tavern industry healthy. The tax base from these two industries, the jobs they create and the monies they contribute to the local governments is important to all of Montana.
My hat is off to the gaming industry people. They take great interest in getting the job done and getting it done right.
As we approach the 2007 Legislative Session, the GAC has a lot of work ahead to prepare legislation that deals with poker and poker limits. They will meet in April to vote the legislative package forward and to make changes deemed necessary.
I would like to note here, the Council members work very well together and will go the extra mile to make sure they get it right. It has been an enjoyable experience serving on the GAC.
At the end of 2006, I will be termed out of the House of Representatives and my tenure as chairman of the GAC comes to an end. I would like to thank everyone from Atty. Gen. Mike McGrath to Gambling Control Division Administrator Gene Huntington, right down the line for the opportunity I have been granted to serve on this council.
Source: The Montana Tavern Times, March, 2006, published monthly by Continental Communications, 125 W. Granite St., Suite 102, Butte, MT 59701.