The Pennsylvania Legislature is currently debating proposals to enlarge maximum bingo payouts, and thus increase proceeds from the games. The plan has already passed through the state House, but remains to be confirmed by the Senate.

Under the plan's guidelines, organizations would be authorized to double their current daily maximum bingo payouts from $4,000 to $8,000. The hope is that increasing bingo prize payouts will attract more players, and thus produce more funding for social services. Profits from bingo, in the form of tax revenues, are slated to be used to support schools, nonprofit groups, and fire departments.

While this all looks good on paper, some residents are asking themselves if promoting gambling is the right way to raise funds for cash-strapped basic social services.

As gambling has increasingly gained popularity over the last few years, it has gained a seemingly permanent place in popular culture. Yet, many feel that this trend could be having dire consequences. Even the most minor of wagers might eventually lead someone to become an addict. Taxpayers also end up footing the bills to rehabilitate problem gamblers.