Massachusetts, USA is anticipated to become a focal point for the US Casino Industry on December 18th, as the first hearing regarding the Governor’s proposal to license three casinos will be held.

The invitation list reads like a who’s who in the casino and gaming industry. A few of the more recognized names include real estate developer and TV personality, Donald Trump, Harrah’s Entertainment CEO Gary Loveman, and well known casino developer Richard Fields, who holds controlling interest in Suffolk Downs. Also on the list is Governor Deval’s administration, Race Track owners, The Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation, State Unions in favor of casinos, district attorneys, and others who may become pivotal in the licensing process for the 3 planned casinos. To allow for the complete picture to be heard and seen opponents of the proposal will also receive invitations as well as local anti-gambling organizations.

This hearing will be held in the Gardner Auditorium, in the Statehouse, between 11am and 5 pm local time.

Once the plan was set in place, the rumors began some even including the possibility of Donald Trump attending the hearing personally. Although this is unlikely, Donald Trump is working on a proposal with Wonderland Greyhound Park to submit a bid for a casino to be located in the Greater Boston Metro area.

The co-chair Representative David Flynn, for the Joint Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures and State Assets, requested and called for a hearing on the matter. His concern is that the proposed casino bill does not do enough for the existing state racetracks. He also wanted to respond to a hearing organized by the anti casino legislators recently held regarding gambling and gambling addiction. Rep. Flynn made it clear to the Statehouse News Service, that he wanted to see this put up to a vote in the 2008 legislative year.  

State Senator Mark Montigny, chair of the Senate Bonding Committee, vocalized his preference for independent experts to offer information pertaining to the net costs and benefits of the proposed casinos. He is looking for solid numbers to overcome his skeptical perception of the casino impact on the state. It is Senator Montigny’s goal to obtain objective analysts.

Should the bill be submitted for a vote in the current state, there would be permission to build one commercial casino in the southeastern part of the state, a second in the Donald Trump desired location of greater Boston as well as one in the western portion of the state. The state has two federally recognized Indian Tribes who would be given special credence should they submit a bid for a license for any of these 3 locations.