Document Type
Research Report
Publication Date
Spring 2011
Abstract
The debate on casinos has intensified over the last few years. Governor Deval Patrick tried to get approval for three casinos back in September 2008, which was rejected by the then Speaker Salvatore Dimasi. However, two years ago, the Governor stood in the way of casinos by vetoing the bill passed by the House and the Senate.
With the economy still recovering from the aftermath of the “Great Recession”, there are talks about job creation and consumer spending all over Massachusetts. Currently, the three most critical players in the government of Massachusetts - Governor Deval Patrick, House Speaker Robert DeLeo, and Senate President Therese Murray are in favor resort casinos. But, the debate is still burning hot. Proponents argue that Massachusetts resort casinos will create jobs and help local businesses, and will not increase crime or cause gaming addiction. Opponents caution that casinos in Massachusetts would bring a risk of organized crime and create a potentially expensive state law enforcement obligation that could reduce any new state revenue from slots and casinos.
In this report the Forum examines various issues related to the casino debate.
Recommended Citation
College of Management, University of Massachusetts Boston, "Dice or No Dice: The Casino Debate in Massachusetts" (2011). Financial Services Forum Publications. 28.
https://scholarworks.umb.edu/financialforum_pubs/28
Included in
Economics Commons, Gaming and Casino Operations Management Commons, State and Local Government Law Commons
Comments
College of Management, Financial Services Forum’s 2011 Report on the casino debate in Massachusetts.