Massachusetts Slots Bill Could Be Last Hope for State Racetracks
Members of the Massachusetts racetrack industry are reportedly endorsing a bill that would allow slot machines at dog and horse tracks. Supporters of the bill are trying to get it passed on the same ticket as a separate racetrack-related State House bill. If the latter bill does not pass by the end of the year, Massachusetts racetracks will call it quits.
The original bill is less controversial, proposing to allow state residents to bet on races country-wide, and on it's own, would have a fair chance of passing. Adding the slots measure, however, makes the effort a significantly bigger risk.
Without slots, or other gaming options, Massachusetts residents are going to near-by Connecticut, which has both casinos and gambling cruises. Without slots, the Massachusetts racetrack industry will likely continue on its current path to a slow, yet inevitable death. By recently coming out against slots gaming, Governor Mitt Romney has basically implied that he is willing to see the industry meet its end. Now, it remains to be seen whether Romney sticks to his guns, or does a 180 once more.
