A casino gambling bill that proposed the building of casinos in Massachusetts was approved last week by the Massachusetts Senate. The bill was passed by a 24-14 vote following which a series of debates took place. Based on these, amendments were adopted by senators. Supporters suggested that the casino gambling bill has the potential to create a great number of jobs. On the other hand, critics claimed that promoting such gambling activities will bring unpleasant consequences on the social structure.

The Basic Tenets of the Bill

The bill proposed the construction of three casinos of resort style in Massachusetts along with a slots parlor. Of the three casinos, one has been proposed to be built on the state's eastern part and another in the western part. The last one will be built in Massachusetts' southeastern part. Bids will start at $85 million for the casinos, according to the bill.

The proposed bill also states that about 25% of the revenues generated from the casinos will be given to the state along with 40% of the revenue from the slots parlor. Therese Murray, the Senate President said that the bill will work in favor of boosting the economy.

Senate's Approval of Casino Gambling Bill Disappoints Few

Those opposing the bill, state that the Senate's decision to pass the casino gambling bill is extremely disappointing. Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz, D-Boston claims that, to close the present budget gap, the state's strategy to introduce casinos is not apt. The opponents of the bill also argue that in addition to bringing additional revenues, such proposals also encourage gambling addictions, initiate environmental problems and affect smaller communities due to higher costs of public safety. Working class families and those belonging to lower income groups will also have to bear the burdens of increased taxation.

Economic Uplift – the Key Reason behind the Bill's Approval

The supporters of the casino gambling bill claim that the casinos have the potential to create no less than 15,000 permanent jobs. About 600 part-time jobs will be created during the construction process as well. The casinos are also capable of adding about $300 million to the state revenue. Those supporting the bill also claim that many residents of Massachusetts travel to the neighboring state of Connecticut to play casino games like high stakes roulette. The bill's approval will enable such casino enthusiasts to visit casinos operating in their state.

A group led by Scott Harshbarger, the previous Attorney General, however, negates the claim of the bill to create jobs. The anti-casino group stated that the estimations of possible jobs and revenue generation were made before recession hit the world. Such estimations are not applicable in today's scenario.

Senate's Approval of the Bill's Amendment

After the final bill was passed, the Senate spoke of an amendment. Voters across the city will be allowed to caste their votes stating their opinions on the casino gambling bill based on which it will be modified. Previously, opinions of those residing in the surrounding area of the location where the casino is proposed to be built were only taken into consideration.