>>> FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE <<<

March 10th, 2007
WVFF secures Barry L. Bruce & Associates, LC,
law firm to sue state to stop implementation
of gambling legislation

Contacts:
WVFF - Kevin McCoy, President, 304-721-4636
Barry L. Bruce & Associates, LC - Barry Bruce, Attorney, 304-645-4182
Click Here to hear McCoy's news conference at our state capital

CHARLESTON -- The West Virginia Family Foundation (WVFF) announced today they have retained Barry L Bruce & Associates, LC, with immediate intentions to file a lawsuit against the state of West Virginia, halting the implementation of HB-2718. This legislation allows residents, in the four counties with racetracks, an option to vote to legalize casino-style table games such as poker, blackjack and roulette, in their respective counties.

WVFF's attorney, Barry Bruce, stated:
"The expansion of gaming while allowing "table games" in West Virginia is against the public policy of West Virginia; damages the public health and welfare of West Virginia citizens; and was not contemplated by the 1984 Constitutional amendment allowing gaming; and should only be implemented upon statewide referendum."

WVFF's president, Kevin McCoy, said, "the decision by our state legislators to pass HB-2718, strips citizens in West Virginia of our constitutional rights of government of the people, by the people and for the people.

Gambling promoters and pro-gambling legislators know that West Virginians will never pass a constitutional amendment allowing casino style gambling. That is why they have chosen to deny voters the opportunity, in 51 West Virginia counties, to voice their outrage in a statewide referendum on this destructive issue.

"The state is already reeling from the negative impact that legalizing video poker is having upon our state. One need only look at the credible, documented studies on the health, social and moral impact upon society and families of those states and communities who condone gambling. When gambling is allowed to expand, we see a direct increase in violent crime, divorce, bankruptcy and harm done to children from parents who gamble. It is very clear this legislation is a threat to the general health and welfare of all West Virginians.” McCoy said.

McCoy concluded, “Legislators are entrusted to represent the best interests of their constituency. When they fail in their responsibility, then a legal remedy must be pursued. Click Here to print the official press release of this pending lawsuit.