House Republican Press Release

January 11, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Caron Attends National Council of Legislators from Gaming States in San Diego

HARTFORD - Representative Michael Caron, (R-Danielson) returned from a three day conference in San Diego, CA where he attended the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS). 

NCLGS (pronounced nickel -geez), is the only national organization of state lawmakers that meets on a regular basis to discuss issues in regard to gaming. NCLGS does not promote or oppose gaming, and is primarily concerned with the proper regulation of the industry. NCLGS is an active participant in educating legislators on gaming issues, in the development of public policy related to state-authorized gaming, and, where consensus exists, in representing the states before Congress and the executive branch of the federal government on states’ rights issues relating to gaming.

“We’ve heard about developments in the gaming industry from various facilities throughout the country,” noted Caron, “There are legislative and regulatory challenges faced by policy makers.”

“Not every gambling establishment is as successful as our local Indian casinos; The Mohegan Sun and the Mashantucket Pequot’s Foxwoods casinos, including other Indian casinos,” said Caron.  “Lotteries and pari-mutuels across the country face a variety of difficulties in a very competitive entertainment and tourism environment.  We were certainly saddened by the suspension of racing at Plainfield Greyhound Park this past spring.   The explosion of poker tournaments and internet sites continue to present major challenges for state lawmakers.”

The Reverend Tom Grey, of the National Coalition Against Legalized Gambling, an outspoken critic and adversary of gambling issues in general and casinos in particular, was a featured speaker during the NCLGS conference. 

“Reverend Grey reminds us about the social costs associated with gaming issues,” said Caron.  “He has been a welcome guest and participant to many of our conferences.”

Representative Caron is a past Secretary and past Treasurer of the organization.  He has been chairman of NCLGS’s Pari-Mutuel Committee. Representative Caron was also one of three state legislators to serve on the Public Sector Gaming Study Commission in 1999 and 2000.