Governor Of Rhode Island Vetoes Expanded Casino Gambling Hours

The General Assembly last week approved a Bill that would expand the hours at Rhode Island's two slot casinos. The move was done to generate more revenue and help fix a $568 million budget deficit.

The Governor of Rhode Island, Don Carcieri, vetoed the Bill on Monday. He claims the reason for the veto was because local residents deserve to chose whether they have more gambling in their area.

The more likely scenario, is that Carcieri, a Republican, was just vetoing the Bill because it was a Democratic idea. Had his fellow Republicans offered the Bill, there would have been no discussion about "local residents."

Democrats claim that they might attempt to have the veto overturned. The extended hours would have been around the clock on weekends and holidays, and casinos also would have been able to stay open until 3:00 A.M. during the week.

In defense of Carcieri's veto, the two casinos have tried to receive expanded hours before. In November, voters turned down a referendum to allow Twin River to stay open later in Lincoln. Newport does not support extended hours for their casino, Newport Grand, either, according to their mayor.

It will now be up to Carcieri and his Republican mates to come up with alternative ways to help balance a budget that is currently at $568 million, and rising.

May 7, 2008
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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