Post Falls Eagles' plight demonstrates unfair law

Thank you, Post Falls Eagles.

Thanks for giving the rest of us a little additional perspective and, in the words of a famous radio personality, at least some of "the rest of the story."

Post Falls Eagles members recently pointed out that the recent police raid, in which seven machines and paperwork documenting payouts were confiscated, means not just a loss of entertainment for Eagles members, but a loss of important revenue for local charities supported by the organization, too.

All throughout North Idaho, the Eagles, the Elks and other fraternal organizations are notoriously good-hearted. They have some fun, raise money and distribute it to a number of charities that benefit greatly from their generosity.

Now, some folks might suggest that law enforcement merely look the other way when receiving a tip or complaint about gambling machines in fraternal organizations or, for that matter, private businesses. We know that's not a solution. It is up to law enforcement to uphold the law, regardless of seemingly reasonable arguments to the contrary. That's why we join the Eagles in asking the Legislature to tackle this tough issue and see if there isn't a more equitable solution.

Right on the face of it, there's irony in the fact that the state issues tax stamps for machines that are illegal. The head-scratching doesn't end there.

In every direction, North Idaho residents can drive a little ways and gamble legally on reservations. You can drive to any corner market or convenience store and gamble legally, too. It's called the Idaho Lottery. And for those equipped with a computer and Internet access, the pearly gates of cyberspace wagering are wide open and welcoming. So why is dropping a few quarters in a machine or playing Texas Hold 'Em at a favored watering hole so sinister? We do believe gaming needs to be regulated. Even good ideas go bad when too many vices mingle.

But we also think common sense and fairness have a place at this negotiating table. How do you say yes when somebody's pumping dollar bills into lottery machines and no when that same person gets acquainted with a similar machine at the local Eagles Club? Proceeds from both mechanisms do some good in the communities. Why should one be allowed, and the other constitute a broken law?

We know the 2007 Legislature will have a lot on its plate. We'd wager, though, that coming up with a more equitable law on charitable gambling would please a majority of constituents.