So I've reincarnated as Mielle Roscente!

32. So I've Finally been Asked Such a Thing?!

"THAT IS MY OPINION~" Aria announced half-heartedly with a smirk. 

Oh~ 

Is that how she was going to insert her opinion? Rain Pino looked a bit surprised by her statement about closing the Casino. 

I have to say that what she said wasn't half bad. But however... 

"Unnie, however...you're looking at the system in a flawed way," I say back to her. "The poor are indeed the only ones who like to gamble, but would you rather that they give up on their ways?" I continue.

"Casinos generate significant tax revenue for local and state governments. These funds can be used to build up the Imperial infrastructure. Wouldn't we all want taxes to be lowered on our ends because of Casinos?" I say. "Additionally, Casinos attract tourists, who spend money not only in casinos but also on hotels, restaurants, and other entertainment venues, thus stimulating the broader economy.

In economically struggling regions, casinos can be a catalyst for development. They can help rejuvenate areas by bringing in visitors and businesses."

I was immediately reminded of some places from my world... modern cities who made it big because of their gambling-themed, make-it-rich-quick cities...!

"Those kinds of places, usually get a lot of migrants coming in, blooming business and the economy," I say.

Rain Pino also nodded at my suggestion saying, "It is quite tempting when you put it like that...lowered taxes do make the citizens happy."

"But what about the poor commoners who strike it poor and develop a gambling addiction? Or lose all their money to illegal business scammers?" Aria brought up.

True... gambling addiction is usually most severe for middle-class and impoverished people who think they can win it. It's terrible for social welfare.

"It's up to the Empire to see how much they can regulate legalized and fair gambling Casinos." I bring up.

"But, you're also missing the point, what of the people who make it big in the Casino world? Should they have to use their winnings as part of their income that is to be taxed? Do you remember what happened with Viscount Louvre? He falsely lied to all the tax reports about his earnings," Aria brought up. 

"Like I said, Casinos need to be regulated properly with Imperial supervision. They cannot be opened with proper authorization or stamps from the government." I say to her.

"What about the gambling addiction culture? How will you explain that? It will definitely affect impoverished families the most!" Aria said. "Besides, increased crime, bankruptcy, and social inequality can be negative side effects of casinos in some areas,"

"That is also a problem, Lady Mielle," Mr. Pino agreed with Aria, "Opening the casinos does bring in a harmful lot of people and violence around the area," 

"That is why they need to be controlled in moderation. Only a few Casinos should be opened around the Empire, and they should be monitored quite closely to test for results. It doesn't seem too risky if we only open a couple, now can we?" I state. "Besides how could the Empire not benefit from some quick buck?" 

"...I see, that is also a factor to take in," Pino also agreed with my statement. "I have to say, that is also not a bad consideration, Lady Mielle. I will definitely take in your opinion." 

"But..." Aria mumbled, "Are you saying that the Casinos should be only available to the rich?" 

"Unnie, weren't you saying that Casinos are bad for the poor? So, therefore, by your logic, they should be only open to the wealthy." I state back.