The gambling industry has hit a roadblock in pushing for a constitutional amendment to allow slot machines in Ohio. Half of the signatures gathered in support of the slot machines ' and the Learn and Earn initiative ' have been found to be invalid. The massive signature-gathering campaign has long been underway to put the issue on the November ballot. Now, thousands of signatures are needed in a matter of days for Ohioans to vote on the issue. But whether or not the signatures are obtained, this invalidity only highlights the deceptive nature of the operation. Signatures have been gathered under the guise of Learn and Earn ' a scholarship program that would reap 30 percent of profits from Ohioans gambling. Financial aid for Ohio's higher education is certainly needed, but playing to this weakness in Ohio's economy seems to be a scapegoat to allow gambling. Signature collectors are paid $8-$15 an hour to push the scholarship program, conveniently down-playing details of the outcome of the slot-machines, how the money will be appropriated and what it means for Ohioans in the long run. Seven racetracks and two new locations in Cleveland would together house the 31,500 slot machines if approved. If it does manage to show up on the ballot, whether or not gambling is considered a moral issue, the manipulation already rampant through this operation should be enough to detract voters from voting yes.
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