Currently gambling is strictly controlled in Massachusetts in the USA. Currently the sate allows a state lottery and sports betting on horse races and dog races. Also permitted are certain gambling games that are held in order to raise money for charities. Typical of such games is Bingo. Any form of casino gambling either live or online is strictly prohibited. This could all change due to a number of factors, which are a combination of economic need and pressure from various groups and individuals. The economic drivers are the result of the Massachusetts budget that was announced in April 2009. Due to the economic downturn the budget did not make good reading for many Bostonians or indeed anybody from Massachusetts. The proposed budget cuts are the most severe in living memory and the state need more funds desperately. One way of increasing revenues for the state government is through taxes on Casino gambling, and several hints have been made that the laws on casino gambling will be readdressed in the near future. Although Massachusetts does not allow casino gambling in the state, the law certainly does not prevent the people who live there from gambling. It is not difficult for the people to travel to either Rhode Island or adjoining Connecticut where Casinos are certainly allowed. Local leaders have estimated that $900 million per year of gambling revenues goes from Massachusetts to these other states. There is also pressure from various quarters to introduce Casinos; however there is considerable disagreement in the detail. Some would like to see a number of slot parlours introduced, and that these should be located at horse and dog racing tracks where gambling already happens. Others are more radical in their approach and would prefer the introduction of resort casinos. What is apparent is that previous strong opposition to gambling in the state is fading. This is due to both changing sentiment amongst members of the State Government along with the departure of some of the strongest opponents to gambling. There is little doubt that the gambling laws will change, the only questions are in the detail.
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