“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise.” – Ephesians 5:15
There is a legislative measure that has been put forth before the 2023 Kentucky General Assembly that aims to expand gambling here in the Commonwealth. House Bill 551 is now being considered by the General Assembly and this bill would legalize sports betting in Kentucky.
Advocates for House Bill 551 are arguing that if the bill is passed it will bring in much-needed revenue to Kentucky’s General Fund and strengthen the state’s pension fund. However, one cannot only look at the financial outcome of expanded gambling, one must look at the issue in totality and understand the social, ethical, and cultural outcomes it will initiate.
The serious negative consequences of expanding predatory gambling in Kentucky are dire. The reality is this… if predatory gambling is legalized the family will be targeted, businesses will suffer, government will be manipulated, and the vulnerable and poor will be destroyed.
It is important to note, House Bill 551 is far more than just a “sports betting” bill, as it is much more expansive. This bill must be stopped for the societal sake of Kentucky.
LET US PRAY…
Father, please empower the Kentucky Legislature to stop this legislative measure aimed at expanding gambling. Lord, enable gambling advocates to see the dire negative consequences that will follow the expansion of gambling in our state. Father, may Your people live in Your wisdom and in Your ways. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
