We won’t know for a few years the total effects of the recession, but we do know that the gaming industry is definitely helping to offset state revenue shortfalls.

According to a recent article in the Washington Times, at least 18 states want to expand their gaming activities because of lower revenues – somewhere between 5 and 14 percent – in the money they collect from casinos, horse racing, lotteries or other gambling.

According to the article, “States are adamant that they don’t want to take advantage of anyone, but with budgets in free fall and tax increases a losing hand politically, lawmakers acknowledge they are dependent on gambling dollars.”

Although gambling and its related addiction is certainly a discussion topic, states still want to do what they can. Pennsylvania, for example, is among states now allowing table games, such as poker, blackjack, roulette and craps. New York is putting in 4,500 video lottery terminals at a racetrack in Queens, and the Connecticut governor wants to offer keno in restaurants so that people can gamble while they eat.

Bingo?