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The Massachusetts Statehouse is once again discussing a possible expansion of legalized gambling. A legislative committee is scheduled to hold a public hearing on bills that would expand legalized gaming in the state this Wednesday.
The news follows months of intense debate over casino plans that failed to materialize last year. Governor Deval Patrick and the Legislature both agreed to back plans to build three resort-style casinos in the state but ultimately sacked the plans when they could not come to an agreement over some of the details. Last year, House Speaker Robert DeLeo insisted that in addition to the resort-casinos the state should also allow slot machines to be placed at two of the state's racetracks. Gov. Patrik did not agree and when the legislature tried to press the issue he simply refused to finalize any sort of agreement.
Neither Gov. Patrik nor DeLeo will speak at this Wednesday's hearing. Both sides agreed earlier this week that they would listen to testimony from casino gambling experts and locals before deciding on how to proceed with legislation this year. Patrick says that he supported three destination casinos in the state and will likely support a similar measure this year but made no comment in regards to adding slot machines to racetracks.
As always, stay tuned to Casinofan for more news and updates.
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