MGM and Wynn Request Amendments to Massachusetts Casino Legislation
The gaming industry has acknowledged the importance of strict regulations when it comes to casinos. This is due to the potential for unethical operators to cheat players, launder money, or engage in other illegal activities if left unchecked. However, there is still debate over the specifics of how these regulations should be enforced.
This was seen this week in Massachusetts, where MGM Resorts International and Wynn Resorts teamed up to petition the State Legislature for changes to the 2011 law that allowed casinos to operate in the state. They argue that certain aspects of the law are inconvenient, could drive patrons to casinos in other states, or even conflict with other state laws.
Both MGM and Wynn are competing for casino licenses in different regions of Massachusetts, so they aren't in direct competition. Mohegan Sun, a competitor for the sole casino license available in the Greater Boston area, has voiced support for the current legislation.
Suggested Changes Sweep Across Multiple Policy Areas
Last week, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission released a memo outlining the changes MGM and Wynn would like to see in the state's casino law. These changes span several aspects of how casinos would be governed.
One request would eliminate the requirement for casinos to document and report anything given away for free (or "comped") to patrons. The commission proposes removing the quarterly reports, but stops short of agreeing completely with the casino companies. They suggest at least temporarily removing the requirement.
Another request is to repeal a rule that requires casinos to check for outstanding childcare payments or tax liabilities before paying out winnings over $600. The companies argue that the state doesn't have a database to confirm these details. The commission is leaning towards suspending the rule until a database is available and increasing the threshold to $1,200 as is standard in most other states.
The companies also want to weaken a provision that would permanently bar anyone with a criminal record, among other circumstances, from being employed by a casino.
Changes Could Make Operations Easier, But Not Crucial
MGM maintains that these changes aren't absolutely necessary for the success of their Massachusetts casino plans. However, they would make running a casino easier.
"The Gaming Act is one of, if not the most, thorough and well-thought-out pieces of gaming legislation in the country," said MGM spokesperson Carole Brennan. "MGM, along with other applicants, has proposed minor tweaks to the Act that would make our facilities more competitive and successful...We don't expect any specific legislative item will keep us from building MGM Springfield."
MGM is expected to learn whether they've been granted the Western Massachusetts casino license for their Springfield resort by June 13. The decision on the Greater Boston license, which is being contested by Wynn and Mohegan Sun, is scheduled for late August or early September.
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