Kids Not Keno

Keno is a highly addictive form of gambling. It is so addictive that it has been called the “crack cocaine” of gambling. And unless we act NOW, it will soon be coming to our neighborhoods.

Last month, with no public debate or discussion, the Connecticut Legislature voted to allow gambling in the form of Keno in our restaurants, bowling alleys, and bars. This was driven by the legislative leadership - including New Haven Senators Harp and Looney - through a backroom deal. What this will mean for New Haven and other cities is more crime, more poverty, and the breakup of families. It will also expose our children in restaurants and bowling alleys to gambling, forcing them to witness an activity which is highly addictive for young people.

We call on New Haven’s Senators Harp and Looney, who negotiated this budget (including Keno), to immediately move to stop Keno from going forward. And, given how out of touch our state legislature is with the needs of New Haven, we demand that a state law be passed banning gambling in any city in Connecticut that does not want it.