Legislative Leaders Endorse Massachusetts Casino Gambling

Both Senate and House leaders in Massachusetts called for expanded gambling to take the shape of resort casinos today.

The political wind in Massachusetts has been blowing in the direction of legalized expanded gambling since ex-Speaker Sal DiMasi was forced from power, and now it seems certain casinos will be part of that package. Both current House Speaker Robert DeLeo and Senate President Therese Murray said Friday they would entertain the idea of destination casinos in the state.

Gambling's arrival in the Bay State has been a foregone conclusion since DiMasi's political arm-twisting ceased preventing the realization of the public will, but many supporters preferred race track slots as a revenue-generating measure. The announcement by the leading lawmakers means casino complexes containing retail, restaurant, and entertainment options are probably soon to be licensed.

“In addition to my backing of slots, I now support resort casinos,” DeLeo told the Associated Industries of Massachusetts. “Given the importance of economic development as well as the vital need for revenue, I have expanded my thinking.”

"I believe that if we are going to approve gaming, we should explore the option of resort-style destination casinos," said Murray at a meeting of the Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce.

Both say elaborate, stylish casinos may be the best way to prevent revenue dollars from cross state borders to Connecticut casinos each year.