It has come to my attention that a group of citizens are opposing the use of lottery funds in the public schools of our state. With all due respect, I must ask if these citizens are aware of the fact that our schools rank second lowest in the nation? Though the lottery proves profitable for some and not for others playing the lottery is only legal for those 18 and older. Citizens 18 and older are considered adults in this nation and should therefore be aware of the chances of winning, made plain on the back of any lottery ticket. It is my opinion that the lottery is needed to fund our struggling public schools.
             In a national survey conducted by the federal government Georgia's public schools ranked second lowest in the nation. How then can we deny desperately needed funding to these institutions of free learning. The survey proved that Georgia needs to address issues that we lack in such as class size, out of date text books, and computer access, all of which require funding. I beseech these citizens to provide an easier way to provide funding for these things. These citizens do not seem to be too quick to donate money to the schools, the only way I can comprehend to replace the aid of the lottery. The lottery's finds are needed to assist our schools in their pursuit of excellence.
             It was clearly stated in the bill to legalize the lottery that players must be 18 or older. It also is clearly stated in state and federal law that individuals 18 and older are considered adults and are therefore, unless deemed otherwise by the court system, able to manage themselves. Also, though our schools may be rated low, the literacy rate is up and adults should be able to read the bold face print of the chances on each game. They should therefore be aware that not everyone will win and it is their fault, not that of the state, if they spend all their finances on the lottery. Adults are able to comprehend the chances of...