from Senator Brian A. Joyce

Dear Milton Neighbor,

After weeks of debate, the Massachusetts Senate passed an expanded gambling bill this evening. I voted for the bill, which provides for three casinos licenses, divided by region, along with one competitively bid slot license. A similar bill previously passed the House, and a final measure will soon become law.

This bill is certainly not the cure for all that ails our economy, and as many of you pointed out in your calls and emails, expanded gaming presents additional societal challenges. After considering all of the arguments pro and con, I voted yes for several reasons.

First, I believe that under federal law, the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe will eventually be permitted to open a gambling facility with or without state action. Therefore, it was important to create a regulatory framework built on the best practices of the 38 other states that now have gambling, and to ensure that state taxpayers benefitted.

I was also mindful of the jobs that will be created. Some 15,000 jobs are generated by this law, plus another temporary 6,000 jobs for the hard-hit building trades.

And finally, the legislation generates hundreds of millions of dollars for our communities, for our schools, senior citizens, public safety and public works.

In fact, an amendment that I co-sponsored and fought for, if agreed to by the House and Governor, will generate an additional $348,649 for the Milton schools. This recurring increased funding for Milton will address a longstanding inequity and keep pressure off local property taxpayers.

About $25 million of the annual gambling revenue will fund programs to fight gambling addiction, and family members will be empowered to intervene if problems occur. Dedicated State Police and Attorney General units will enforce gambling laws. An independent Gaming Commission will be run by appointees of the Governor, Attorney General and Treasurer, who must have experience in legal and gaming policy, law enforcement and finance.

For all of you who contacted me on this important matter, please be assured that I read and considered every comment.

Thanks for the continued opportunity to work for you.

Brian