I am asking for your signature to show that you support House Bill #283 submitted by Representative Thomas Calter to the Joint Committee on Economics and Emerging Technologies. This Bill would authorize the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to issue a limited “slot machine” license to a veterans’ organization to operate up to 10 “slot machines” (inclusive of video poker machines) in an establishment owned or leased by the veterans’ organization.

Revenue from these “slot machines” would enable the veterans’ organizations, such as the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars to continue their many programs designed to aid local veterans in need, to promote Americanism and to contribute to the well- being of the local community. These beneficial programs include, but are not limited to, Heidrea for Heroes, Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, Boys and Girl State, Youth Cadet Law Enforcement Program, Boy and Girls Scouts of America, Baseball, Department of Children and Families, and scholarships for High School and College students.

The Federal Government recognizes the importance of these programs and the IRS has exempted all veterans’ organizations from Federal Income Tax on Gambling Profits.