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MN ballot question to decide if state lottery will fund conservation efforts

MN ballot question to decide if state lottery will fund conservation efforts

Voters to decide if conservation efforts should be funded by state lottery

Voters in Minnesota will decide this November whether to amend the state constitution to allow a portion of lottery proceeds to be used for conservation efforts.

What would the amendment do?

The proposed amendment would dedicate 12 percent of the net proceeds from the state lottery to the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment Fund.

This fund was created in 2008 and is used to fund a variety of conservation projects, including protecting water quality, improving fish and wildlife habitat, and providing access to outdoor recreation.

Who is supporting the amendment?

The amendment is supported by a coalition of conservation groups, including the Minnesota Environmental Partnership, the Minnesota Conservation Federation, and the Sierra Club.

Supporters argue that the amendment is a necessary step to protect Minnesota's natural resources and ensure that future generations have access to clean water, healthy land, and abundant wildlife.

Who is opposing the amendment?

The amendment is opposed by a group called Minnesotans for Responsible Gambling. The group argues that the amendment would divert money away from other important programs, such as education and healthcare.

Opponents also argue that the amendment would increase gambling addiction and that the money would not be used effectively.

What are the arguments for and against the amendment?

Arguments for the amendment:

• Would provide a dedicated source of funding for conservation efforts.
• Would protect Minnesota's natural resources and ensure that future generations have access to clean water, healthy land, and abundant wildlife.
• Would create jobs and boost the economy.

Arguments against the amendment:

• Would divert money away from other important programs, such as education and healthcare.
• Would increase gambling addiction.
• The money would not be used effectively.

What is the likely outcome of the vote?

The outcome of the vote is uncertain. A recent poll showed that 52% of voters support the amendment, while 48% oppose it.

The amendment is likely to pass if it is supported by a majority of voters.