Indian Gaming > Gaming legislation in Massachusetts back on agenda

Gaming legislation in Massachusetts back on agenda

Thursday, February 4, 2010
Filed Under: Connecticut | Legislation

Legislation to authorize commercial gaming in Massachusetts appears to be gaining steam in light of high unemployment and the recession, The Boston Globe reports.

Gov. Deval Patrick (D) has been pushing the idea for years. Lawmakers rejected his proposal in 2008 but the political and economic landscape has changed.

Patrick included a tribal preference in his earlier legislation. It's not clear whether it will be a part of legislation that is expected to be introduced this month.

The Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe is planning to apply for a commercial license should the bill become law. The tribe is already scouting sites in eastern Massachusetts.

Over in western Massachusetts, the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut has already laid claim to a gaming site. Meanwhile, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe continues to pursue a casino under federal law.

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Gambling proposal may be gaining (The Boston Globe 2/4)