Suffolk Downs Attempts To Change Gambling Game In Massachusetts

Now that the state of Massachusetts appears headed towards some form of casino gambling, proposals are starting to be put together for possible gambling destinations. Suffolk Downs became the latest to unveil a plan, and it is one that would bring major expansion to the Boston area.

Legislators have been working on legislation this session that would allow casino resorts in the state. The amount of gambling, however, differs depending on whether the Senate or the House bill is passed. The two chambers are currently in the process of reconciling their bills.

The Senate plan calls for the addition of three casino resorts, one each in region of Massachusetts. The House plan is more expansive, creating two casino resorts, but also allowing slots at each of the state's four racetracks. Governor Duval Patrick is pushing for the Senate bill.

Governor Patrick does not want to see slots at the tracks. The governor proposed a plan last year that would have brought four casino resorts to the state. The plan was defeated in the House, when then-House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi opposed the proposal. New House Speaker Robert DeLeo is the sponsor of the House gambling bill, although he is at odds with Patrick over the racetrack expansion.

The Suffolk Downs proposal includes a $600 million investment. In addition to the casino gambling, Suffolk Downs would build a 400 to 600 room hotel. The facility, which is seventy-five years old, would also have shops, restaurants, and a spa. Expansion of the grandstand at the track is part of the expansion plan.

If legislators are able to iron out the gambling proposals, thousands of jobs would be created in Massachusetts. Construction jobs would be temporary, and thousands of more full-time employment would be created from the clubs and casino floor. Millions of dollars would be generated in gambling tax revenue.

July 8, 2010
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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