November 5 , 2009
For Immediate Release

Contact: Tim Burga
614.224.8271 | tburga@ohaflcio.com

WORKING FAMILIES VOTE FOR ISSUE 3; LABOR GROUND GAME PROVIDES MARGIN FOR CASINO ISSUE

Early support for Issue 3 from Ohio’s labor organizations and an absentee ballot plan that urged early voting for union members were “huge contributing factors in the passage of the constitutional amendment to allow casino gambling in our state,” said Ohio AFL-CIO President Joe Rugola.

The Ohio AFL-CIO endorsed the casino measure in June, citing job creation, increased tax revenues for school and local governments and a major infusion of private investment dollars into Ohio’s economy as the major reasons for organized labor’s support.

“Over the last five months, union members spent countless hours working for passage of Issue 3. The overwhelming victory – 53% to 47% -- shows that voters across the state share our goal of creating new jobs in a struggling economy,” Rugola said.

He urged the Ohio General Assembly to quickly pass implementing legislation so construction of the casinos in Cleveland, Columbus, Toledo and Cincinnati can start quickly.

“The people of Ohio have spoken and have clearly said they believe this can help jump-start Ohio’s economy and provide critical tax dollars to cities and counties across the state. We hope the Ohio House of Representatives, the Ohio Senate, and Governor Strickland will act quickly so workers can get shovels in the ground as fast as possible,” Rugola said.

The Ohio AFL-CIO, represents 700,000 workers in 40 national unions.

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