Kentucky Baptists to Fight Gambling Expansion in State

(Associated Press) - The Kentucky Baptist Convention is speaking out against expanded gambling in a new radio ad aimed at stirring grassroots opposition to legalizing casinos.

The ad is debuting today on Christian radio stations. It features the Baptist Convention's executive director, Paul Chitwood. He says casino operators want to "cash in on the misery" of others.

He urges listeners to press their lawmakers to oppose expanded gambling. Chitwood also makes his case in a video being sent to churches across the state.

The Baptist Convention's campaign comes as expanded gambling supporters are renewing their efforts in this year's General Assembly session.

Lawmakers are considering proposals that would let Kentucky voters decide whether to amend the state's constitution to legalize casinos. Supporters point to the revenue they say casinos would generate for the state.