Nevada doesn't need a state lottery

Feel like voting yourself another tax? Then go ahead and start a state lottery for Nevada. But don't be fooled into thinking a state lottery is some kind of easy solution to school funding, a way to avoid higher taxes elsewhere or anything other than what it is - government-run gambling.

Nevada Democrats say they will float the idea, which has been defeated 26 times already, as a funding stream for the state's education system. A state lottery is prohibited by the constitution, so it would have to be approved twice by voters.

Some think it would pass easily, and they may be right. It doesn't sound like a tax. No one would be forcing you to pay it. Nevada's the mother of gambling states, so what's not to like?

First, running a gambling operation is pretty close to the bottom of activities we see as a function of government.

We're apparently in the minority in that belief, as 39 states and the District of Columbia have lotteries. But Nevadans should be able to make up their own minds and see through the charade.

Second, there already is a gaming industry thriving in Nevada, in case anybody noticed. Want to get more revenue from gambling? Raise the taxes.

Third, however, is the most important question: Why does the state budget need another $30 million to $50 million?

At the moment, after record tax increases in 2003, Gov. Kenny Guinn is looking at a budget surplus and a program to refund $300 million to taxpayers.

If Democrats are looking to the future (a lottery couldn't be in place any sooner than 2008), their crystal ball apparently sees a shortfall and a reason to raise money for expenses that don't yet exist. Ours doesn't.

In fact, Guinn proposed Monday evening another $100 million for elementary schools, on top of big increases two years ago, and a $350 million injection for the university system. In all, education accounts for some $2.7 billion in the state's budget.

Legislators have the power to vote whatever education budget they think is appropriate. That should be their priority - not finding ways to convince Nevadans to cough up money for lottery tickets.