Massachusetts’ DeLeo and Patrick Fight over Slots
Residents in Massachusetts are wondering what is happening with slot machines in the state. It’s been a long standing debate within the state whether or not to allow slots gambling in or not. Part of the issue is that legislators don’t know what is going on so they can’t communicate to the voting public what the status of the games is. Governor Deval Patrick and the House Speaker Robert A DeLeo have been going at it regarding the issue for months now. Each one offered his own opinion on what to do, and no resolution is in sight.
Governor Deval Patrick is concerned with the effects he believes slot machines will have on their residents. He is stating that slot machines will bring in crime, corruption and addiction. He also cites that without the proper contingency plans to handle legalizing and regulating slots gambling, the state is sure to fall into hefty problems. On the other hand, Patrick says that he is in support of bringing casino gambling to the state, but he wants to know the consequences first. He wants the slot machines to be brought in only after there is a thorough review of the potential problems and how to solve them is compiles. Patrick seems to have a focus on creating more of a solid plan before going through with the move. He has also said that many legislators and citizens are too focused on the potential millions of dollars that have come into other states and counties as a result. Though the money is an advantage, it isn’t a sure-thing. No one knows what exactly slots will bring in terms of revenue and projections are not always accurate. Relying on them is the most foolish move the state legislators can make.
DeLeo believes that the state needs to begin with slot machines and then make the “natural progression” to table games and big time casinos. He says that you have to have slot machines at the tracks because they are basically the cornerstone of gambling. DeLeo is trying to push forward legislation that would legalize slot machines at all of the state’s four racetracks.
Tags: DeLeo, Massachusetts, Patrick
