Massachusetts Governor Shoots Down Casino Compromise

Massachusetts lawmakers have presented an expanding gambling bill to the Governor, however it has been rejected.

The House and the Senate agreed to compromise on three resort casinos and racinos in two of the states racetracks, however Governor Deval Patrick said that he would not support the bill. He added that to move the measure forward and ensure the bill was signed before the session closed tomorrow, he would support only one slot parlor that was competitively and openly bid on.

“This is a big concession for me in light of my consistent view that slot parlors do not give us the jobs at higher wages and benefits that justify the social costs.” The Governor said in a statement.

The cabinet was scheduled to vote on the measure Saturday, however they will either need to redraft the bill to an acceptable form for the Governor or secure a two-thirds vote to override the veto.

If legislatures do not bend or muster up the votes it could cost the state $300 million in lost licensing fees.