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Blotter: Political battle in Massachusetts over slot machines

Massachusetts House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo and Governor Deval Patrick are engaged in a major political fight over the issue of allowing slot machines at the state's horse racetracks. Speaker DeLeo is in the process of creating a bill that will allow for the establishment of so-called "racinos" at four Massachusetts racetracks. Governor Patrick is opposed to the measure, favoring the idea of separating racetracks from land-based casino games.

Speaker DeLeo has proposed that the slot machines be installed in the state's racetracks as a quick way to increase tax revenue for the cash-strapped state. He said that the slots represent "a more immediate" answer to the state's cash-flow problems, enabling the state to gain much-needed funds in three to six months. While he favors the building of resort-style casinos in the state, he acknowledges that the benefits may not be felt for several years.

Meanwhile, Governor Patrick has said that he will not support any form of "racino" in a letter addressed to Speaker DeLeo and State Senate President Therese Murray. The governor voiced his concern that, although he supports the establishment of casino resorts in the state, as well as the added jobs and tax revenue that such facilities can bring in, if gambling were to be expanded too quickly and without proper precautions, the results could be disastrous.

Governor Patrick said that he wants to handle the idea of expanded gambling within the state "with extreme care". While he opposes the idea of adding slot machines to race tracks, he did not say that he would immediately veto any proposal brought to his desk and that it was "too early" to begin declaring any intention to veto such a bill.

Speaker DeLeo has the backing of many of the racetrack owners who support slot machine installations. Gary Piontkowski, owner of Plainridge Racecourse in Plainville, said that the idea of not allowing racetracks to have slot machines while permitting them in more luxurious casinos would prove fatal to his business. If the politicians can agree to install slot machines at the tracks, Mr. Piontkowski pointed out, it would be a benefit both to the racetracks and to the state's bottom line.

06-Jan-2010, 13:35

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