Rhode Island Pulls About-Face, Heads For Casino Gambling

Rhode Island lawmakers are reportedly concerned about rumors of casino gambling coming to neighboring Massachusetts.

The difference a year makes is dramatically illustrated in Rhode Island politics, where twelve months ago there was a hard-fought battle over whether to extend operating hours at state slot parlors a few minutes of each day. Now, with economic conditions nationwide far worse, that same legislative body is considering expanding those facilities to incorporate full-fledged casino gambling.

The Providence Journal is reporting today that state Senator John J. Tassoni Jr. will submit a bill proposing amending the state constitution to permit blackjack, roulette, craps, and other popular casino games that are currently illegal. Tassoni said of his bill, "I think it is time. We don’t have enough revenue for the budget."

Rhode Island lawmakers are reportedly concerned about rumors of casino gambling coming to neighboring Massachusetts. If that happens, the slot rooms at Twin River and Newport Grand will face losing masses of patrons who prefer a wider selection of gaming.

Thw Twin River location already faces looming bankruptcy, a possibility that caused Rhode Island House Speaker William Murphy to say all options need to be kept on the table to protect state revenues generated at the gambling locations. The government's share from the dog track and slots at Twin River is estimated at over $240 million.

Legislators had been reluctant last year to allow weekend twenty-four hour operation to the slot machine rooms, arguing the social costs of increased gambling were not acceptable. But, faced with the alternatives of curbing their own spending, raising taxes, or bringing in new gambling, politicians seem to prefer adding casino gambling.