MA Gov. says there may be no casino bill

Gov. Deval Patrick is saying that there may be no casino bill this year because of disagreement over slot machines at racetracks.

Patrick told reporters Tuesday that differences between himself and House Speaker Robert DeLeo on the issue may be too great to overcome.

Patrick said he still does not support slots at race tracks, while DeLeo has said racetrack slots are necessary to save jobs.

Patrick said he would support other measures to help the struggling racing industry, including increased purses.

He also said the key players in the gambling debate have been talking about each other rather than to each other.

A six-member legislative panel is working to craft a compromise between the House bill, which allows racetrack slots, and the Senate bill, which does not.