MARYLAND BRIEFING

SLOTS REFERENDUM

Opponents Criticize Wording of Measure

An anti-slots group says that the wording of a November ballot proposal to authorize 15,000 slot machines in Maryland is too favorable to pro-gambling interests.

The language, released yesterday by Secretary of State John P. McDonough, an appointee of Gov. Martin O'Malley (D), lists several education programs that stand to benefit from slots proceeds. Scott Arceneaux, a senior adviser to Marylanders United to Stop Slots, said the ballot question does not mention the portion of proceeds that will be kept by slots operators or earmarked for the horse-racing industry.

"We think it's as favorable to the pro-slots side as possible," Arceneaux said, adding that the group is studying its options, including legal action.

In a statement, McDonough, who as a lawyer formerly represented Rosecroft Raceway in Prince George's, said he crafted a fair question. He said the ballot language makes clear that the "video lottery terminals" at issue are "slot machines."

"While I am sure advocates on one side or the other (or both) will probably have criticisms, I am satisfied I carried out my statutory duty to fairly summarize the intent and meaning . . . without arguing for or against it," McDonough said.

Fred Puddester, chairman of For Maryland for Our Future, a pro-slots group, said in a statement that legislation authorizing the referendum last year made clear that the primary purpose of slots is to help education. "That purpose of funding education should not be lost in the coming weeks as we continue our discussion on this important issue," he said.

-- John Wagner

MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Drowning Victim Identified; Another Is Found

A body recovered from the Potomac River last week was identified as that of Paul R. Woods Jr., 48, of the 47300 block of McCarthys Island Court in Sterling, Montgomery County police said yesterday.