Governor Deval Patrick has indicated he supports the bill

Casino bill passes Senate in Massachusetts

2011-10-14
Reading time 40 seg
(US).- The high-stakes, controversial expanded gambling bill passed the State Senate this afternoon by a vote of 24-14, putting the Bay State on the brink of opening its borders to casinos and slot machines. The bill allows up to three casinos and one slot parlor and divides the state into regions.

Supporters, led by House Speaker Robert DeLeo, frame it as a “jobs bill,” arguing it will put the unemployed back to work and give cash-strapped cities and towns a much-needed infusion of revenue.

But critics have blasted the plan, claiming it was crafted behind closed doors, influenced by politically wired gaming industries, and will lead to gambling addiction and crime.

Seemingly a hopeless cause just over a year ago, the casino bill is now inches away from becoming law. A joint House-Senate committee will now attempt to iron out the differences between the two bills – including the Senate’s so-called “free drinks amendment” that could ease Happy Hour restrictions in restaurants across Massachusetts.

Governor Deval Patrick has indicated he supports the bill.

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