By Jillian Poland
Staff Writer
The Plainridge Park Casino opened a slots parlor in the summer of 2015 and has since paid out over $82 million in Massachusetts state taxes, according to last month’s Massachusetts Gaming Commission Revenue Report.
The Plainridge slots parlor opened after casino legislation passed in 2011, allowing three resort-style casinos and one slots-only facility in Massachusetts. The November ballot will give voters the opportunity to allow one more slots parlor to operate in Massachusetts.
In other words, voters will be given the opportunity to funnel millions more dollars into the state budget.
The opening of a new slots parlor in Massachusetts would provide millions in additional revenue for the state, as already proven by the success of the Plainridge Park Casino. Additionally, a new parlor would offer hundreds of new jobs for Massachusetts residents.
The specifics of the new law would require the slots parlor be built within at least 1,500 feet of a horse- racing track. This placement is in an attempt to garner renewed interest in what was once a vital and vibrant industry in Massachusetts.
An increase interest in and funding for horse racing could lead to state-wide races that provide hundreds of jobs and help support the preservation of agricultural land, according to spokespeople from the New England Horseman’s Benevolent and Protective Association.
Nine percent of the 49 percent tax on casinos even goes into a government-backed fund aimed at reviving the industry in Massachusetts, according to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission website.
Currently, the only year-round track in the state for horse racing is located at the Plainridge Park Casino. The average racing day handle, or amount bet by customers, is up 28 percent since the slots parlor opened, according to Plainridge Park Casino. This provides hope that more slots parlors positioned near racing tracks could o.er similar benefits.
The new law appeared to many to be targeting a plot of land in Revere near Suffolk Downs, a once- prominent racing track. Since the town of Revere recently rejected plans for the proposed slots parlor, though, some opponents argue the law would be a moot point.
However, the law simply gives the Massachusetts Gaming Commission the right to issue the license to any parlor approved within the specifications. There are multiple places within the state outside of Revere that would fit the bill, according to members of the Yes on One campaign.
And there may still be hope for a slots parlor in Revere, despite the recent rejection. Revere voters have supported two different casino proposals for Suffolk Downs that did not get licensed. Another proposal or another local referendum could lead to a slots parlor in Revere.
Once all is considered, a “yes” vote on Question