Say no to special session on gambling

The Sun's headline "Gambling expansion remains in limbo" (July 7) and the accompanying story on efforts to hold a special session on gambling this summer quoted the governor as saying he will "continue to look for a consensus." That could mean holding a special session at which lawmakers would vote on proposals to authorize a sixth casino in Maryland and allow table games such as poker at all six.

Yet the Maryland Constitution, Article II, Section 16 states "the Governor shall convene the Legislature, or Senate alone, on extraordinary occasions." What in the world makes anyone think that voting on a sixth casino and allowing table games is extraordinary? Why not wait until the regular session in 2013 to start the debates?

Of course, after watching our lawmakers in action this past session, I think it might be a good idea to pass a balanced budget before they start doing anything else then start the debates on other issues. No good is going to come out of calling a special session now and trying to force the desires of Gov.Martin O'Malley, House SpeakerMichael E. Buschand Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller on the lawmakers.

A state panel consisting of 11 people looking for a consensus on a sixth casino and allowing table games isn't what I consider a true debate or consensus. As far asPrince George's CountyExecutiveRushern L. BakerIII being "adamant" about building a casino, that ship sailed a few years ago when we first voted on slots and the leadership of his county said they didn't want to be included. Will there be no end to this?

David Gosey, Towson