Massachusetts - Gambling in Near Future
Although the details are fuzzy, Massachusetts officials see gambling in their state in the near future.
According to an article in the Boston Globe on Monday , top Massachusetts lawmakers could hold casino hearings as early as next month. However, no date has been set and the type of gambling hasn't been determined.
As State coffers run low, gambling surfaced as a possibility to generate much needed revenue. The time is also optimal, as gambling opponent, former House speaker Salvatore F. DiMasi, is now out of office, clearing the way for legislators to discuss the idea.
So far, state officials have studied casino racetracks, resort-style gambling and slot machines at bars and restaurants. One option involves the licensing of casinos in the eastern and western parts of the state, then allowing slots at Plainridge and Raynahm Park racetracks.
Another plan shows a casino in Warren, a town located in the south-central part of Massachusetts. But any casino there would have to compete with Mohegan Sun, a Connecticut casino with plans to build in nearby Palmer. Mohegan Sun is planning a 600-room hotel, spa, casino, restaurants and shops.
According to the Boston Globe article, Gary Loveman, a Massachusetts resident and chief executive at Harrah's Entertainment Inc., has also been interested in having a presence in his home state.
It has not been determined if online gambling will be integrated in to this plan through land-based casinos.
