New Operating Interests Emerge in Massachusetts Casino Debate
Last year, political maneuvering led to the defeat of a bill looking to license three casinos in Massachusetts that was reportedly created with the help of Las Vegas Sands officials, eager to move into the state. A new movement to introduce casinos, with far better prospects, has emerged this year, and competing operators are rushing to be sure Sands doesn't get a jump on them.
Wynn Resorts hired a lobbyist and is sending company representatives to Massachusetts to keep the company's name at the forefront of casino talk. Boyd Gaming, another Las Vegas-based casino company, is looking for appropriate sites, and has a lobbyist of its own.
Gary Loveman, CEO of Harrah's Entertainment, has explored establishing a business relationship with race track operators at Suffolk Downs. Bidding is possible on several other state tracks, and PennNational Gaming and Station Casinos are said to be investigating opportunities.
"If the stars line up, we might be an acquirer," said Steve Wynn, CEO of Wynn Resorts. He said the time may be nearing for the company to begin expanding again, as recessionary effects seem to be bottoming.
"Wynn is interested in participating in the process as it unfolds. Wynn believes that its financial strength and development expertise may be a good match for the state," said a spokesman for Wynn's new lobbying employee, ML Strategies.
"We're going to have gaming," said Massachusetts Senate President Therese Murray. "It won't be soon. It will probably be later than sooner, but we're going to work on it."
