State legislators don’t often defer to citizens on major decisions, but the General Assembly is currently debating whether to let voters amend the state’s Constitution to permit destination resort casinos in Georgia. Without such an amendment, the casinos are blocked.

Personally, I applaud the idea of letting us make the choice, especially since proceeds from casinos will bolster our children’s future through HOPE scholarships.

What’s more, destination resort casinos will bring huge economic benefits to every region of the state.

Although everyone is cheering the boost to HOPE, let’s not forget the windfall in local and state tax revenues from increased tourism and conventions, already a major economic engine here.

Letting citizens choose more jobs, increased revenue for education and public services and the promise of business activity for decades to come should be the year’s easiest vote in the General Assembly.

Ben Peters

Cumming