US: New York plans won't impact Massachusetts

“I think by-and-large if you look at competition in general in this particular industry I don’t think it has that much on an effect on it,” said Rep. Angelo Puppolo. “Two of the most successful casinos are side-by-side with Foxwoods and Mohegan just right down in Connecticut.”

For other lawmakers Governor Cuomo’s comments are a sign that the northeast is being overrun by gaming activity.

“We have enough casinos, frankly, in the United States and frankly in the neighborhood,” said Rep. Denise Andrews.

Andrews said feedback among her constituents has been 50/50 for and against gaming. Since her district’s enthusiasm for casino jobs doesn’t outweigh their concern for the heightened probability of gambling addiction, Andrews said she has decided not to lend her support for an expanded gambling bill in Massachusetts.

“Now is the time to get back at what are some of the factory jobs, what are some of the agriculture jobs, what are some of the hard asset jobs that we can put in place,” said Andrews.

Nevertheless, legislative leaders revealed in July that the first order of business when the General Court returns from summer recess will be gaming legislation in September.

Both the House Speaker and Senate President said they are consulting new members in their Chambers to see where they stand on gaming. It’s unclear whether they have the votes this year to get an expanded gaming bill passed.