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State Issues Archive

Slots, Maybe

The Massachusetts legislature is likely to consider bills this spring allowing slot machines at the state’s four racetracks, including Suffolk Downs. Signs are positive — the new House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi represents East Boston and Governor Mitt Romney supports expanded gaming. But nothing is certain and there’s little word yet on what kind of deal the tracks would get. I’m hoping something passes this year — I fear that without slots, this will be Suffolk’s last year of live racing. (Boston Globe)

Posted in State Issues on February 10, 2005

All Is Gloom

Without slots in Maryland, writes Andrew Beyer, “gloom and pessimism pervade the sport. Since the legislature killed all of the bids to legalize slot machines in the state, while Pennsylvania approved slots for its tracks, the future of Maryland racing appears almost hopeless. Some trainers are looking to move their operations out of the state. Employees are worried about their jobs. Breeders are worried. Racing fans are disgruntled about the quality of the product.” (Washington Post)

Posted in State Issues on October 10, 2004

Hope for Suffolk Slots

The change in Massachusetts house leadership could bode well for the future of the state’s tracks. (Taunton Gazette)

Posted in State Issues on September 28, 2004

New Thinking Needed

Slots aren’t coming to Maryland any time soon, says John Eisenberg, and it’s time for the racing industry and politicians to face up to that: “The racing industry, caught in the middle, can’t afford to wait any longer. It needs to focus on fixing up its own house rather than continuing to lobby for slots. And the politicians entrenched on either side of the stalemate need to recognize they’re causing harm and do something to help.” (Baltimore Sun)

Posted in State Issues on September 18, 2004