Behind The Sound Bite: Casinos In Massachusetts
Gov. Deval Patrick signed legislation that will allow up to three “resort-style” casinos and a slots parlor in the state. Patrick said the legislation, “if done right … can create jobs, generate new revenue and spur economic growth.” Assuming the measure survives a possible ballot referendum challenge, what happens next?
Who will handle applications for the casinos and slots parlor?
A five-member commission. By March, Patrick will appoint the chairman; the attorney general and treasurer will each appoint one member. The remaining two members will be appointed by two out of those three officials. No more than three commissioners can come from the same political party.
What is the approval process for a casino to be built?
The commission will establish that. Under the legislation, applicants must address how they will hire workers for the sites, along with plans to mitigate social, economic, cultural and public safety impacts on surrounding communities. Each of the three casino licenses will carry an $85-million price tag, while the slots parlor license will cost $25 million.
How might this affect Central Massachusetts?
Top candidates to host a casino are Milford and Palmer. Mohegan Sun resort casino in Connecticut is behind the Palmer proposal; David Nunes, a Colorado-based developer, is proposing the Milford project.
Will it really generate jobs and boost economic growth?
Supporters said the bill should create as many as 15,000 jobs during and after construction, and add at least $300 million in annual revenue for the state, according to media reports. But opposition group United to Stop Slots in Massachusetts says businesses such as movie theaters and restaurants will lose money when patrons opt to hit a casino instead.
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