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The Taxpayers Protection Alliance (TPA) today announced the release of "Being Played,” (click here to view the ad) the second in a series of television ads opposing the recently-announced special legislative session in Maryland to expand gaming.  Governor O’Malley also wants to form a special secret commission to set tax rates for casino operators.  Creating a commission to determine tax policy solves nothing; any recommendations it makes are non-binding.   This is just a ploy to prevent legislators from openly supporting casino special interests at the expense of Maryland taxpayers before the fall elections.  It is a textbook example of politicians trying to avoid accountability.  Earlier this year, the Maryland General Assembly passed and Governor O’Malley signed legislation raising income taxes on workers making more than $100,000, families earning in excess of $150,000.  The state increased the marriage penalty and shifted pension costs to localities, engaging in some creative accounting to hide its unfunded obligations.   Maryland’s state-local income rate now stands at 8.95 percent -- the fourth-highest in the nation.  At the same time, Governor O’Malley has been trying to convene a special session to work out a plan to give a tax break for casinos, particularly a casino at National Harbor.  This special session could cost Maryland taxpayers $15,000 per day.