Gov. Patrick Acknowledges Casinos May Still Be Years Away
BOSTON (CBS/AP) -- Despite a looming agreement on a casino bill, Governor Patrick acknowledged today that the reality of expanded gambling may still be a long way away.
A study out today suggest it could take up to five years for casinos to be up and running.
"You can't do it right with a magic wand. We have to do it right in the land of reality. That means taking the time to get it right," Patrick told WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Laurie Kirby.
The acknowledgement came as the Massachusetts Senate released its version of a gambling bill licensing three casinos and slots parlor in the state.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Laurie Kirby reports
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The Senate Ways and Means committee released the bill during an informal legislative session Friday that broadly mirrors a bill the House approved Wednesday.
The bill establishes the same licensing process, tax rates, and revenue distribution as the House version. One notable change increases the application fee for a casino to $400,000 from $350,000. That $50,000 bump covers negotiation costs for communities hosting casinos.
Senate lawmakers have until Wednesday to file amendments and debate is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 26
Earlier this year the Senate adopted a rule requiring 10 days between the release of any gaming legislation and debate to allow lawmakers and the public to study the bill.
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