Battle Heating Up in Massachusetts Over Proposed Casino Licenses

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick used his pro-gambling stance to help get himself elected. Now, he is trying to have three casinos licensed for gambling, but his plan is receiving heavy opposition.

House Speaker Salvatore Dimasi has been one of the main combatants to Patrick on the issue of expanded gambling. He is doing everything in his power to ensure that Patrick's proposal is shot down.

The latest attack on the plan came this week, when Dimasi has released an analysis that contradicts the Governor. Patrick claims that the new casinos would generate $400 to $450 million in state revenue. The analysis disputes that claim.

"In reviewing the Governor's proposal, I believe he overstates the benefits and downplays the costs of bringing casino gambling to the Commonwealth. his figures are high and the projected revenue can not be counted on," said Representative Daniel E. Bosley, in the analysis.

A hearing is set on March 18th before the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies. The battle over the casino issue has grown to be the significant one that is taking place between politicians in Massachusetts these days.

Patrick's proposal has been picking up supporters nearly daily. The projected increase in revenue is one that can not be overlooked in these tough economic times.

Job growth is another issue that is pushing Patrick's proposal. Th three new casinos would bring with them 30,000 construction jobs, according to Patrick.

March 12, 2008
Posted By Larry Rutherford
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
Submit News!