Rhode Island Receives Around The Clock Gambling

Rhode Island is facing the same economical challenges that other states are battling. The increased pressure from the economy is making lawmakers in most states scramble to look for ways to bridge the financial gap.

In Rhode Island, one of the proposed plans has received the O.K. from lawmakers. The two casinos in the state will be allowed to be open for twenty four hours a day on weekends and holidays.

Two identical Bills had no problems passing either the Senate or House of Representatives. The Senate approved the expanded gambling hours Bill 27-6, while the House passed the Bill 51-19.

Newport Grand and Twin River in Lincoln are the beneficiaries of the new law. they will be able to stay open for twenty four hours on the weekends, and until 3:00 A.M. during the week.

Twin River earlier in the year, had estimated that $11.8 million could be raised for the state if the gambling hours were extended. That number rang big for lawmakers who have been exploring any options that would relieve some of the $568 million budget deficit.

Another aspect of the debate was the gambling age in the state. Opponents of the twenty four hour gambling were trying to get the gambling age raised from 18 to 21. That attempt was unsuccessful.

April 30, 2008
Posted By April Gardner
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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