| Charleston-AP
Small-business owners say they will be forced out of business if
legislation regulating video poker machines in West Virginia
becomes law.
Governor Wise's video poker bill would prohibit grocery stores and
convenience stores from having the machines. Wise is expected to
sign the bill.
Dave Lawrence's grocery story near Charleston has seven video
poker machines. He says the revenue they generate keeps his store
open.
Lawrence says Wise doesn't care about small-business owners.
Danny Young says he fired two employees at his Charleston
convenience store this week to prepare for losses that will occur
when the state takes his 12 machines.
Wise spokesman Bill Case says the bill restricts illegal gambling
that has become rampant across West Virginia. At the same time, it
provides the state with much-needed revenues.
Lawmakers say the bill eventually could produce an estimated 112
million dollars annually for the state.
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