- HB 4431 is aiming for online casino gaming in Massachusetts.
- Encore Boston Harbor is pushing against online casino expansion.
BOSTON – Things are heating up in the Boston gambling circle, with online casino gambling being presented in Massachusetts.
Currently, in Massachusetts, the only form of online gambling in the state comes via sports betting.
That could change soon, though, with Rep. David Muradian introducing HB 4431 which would allow for several online casino games such as blackjack, poker, slots, and several others.
If passed, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission would have full authority over online casino gaming and impose a 15% tax on revenue, with licenses only being granted to existing casino license holders.
Encore Boston Harbor Strongly Opposes Online Gambling Bill
Not everyone in the state is in favor of the bill, though, most notably, the Encore Boston Harbor casino. The main argument against the Massachusetts online gambling bill is that it would ruin in person casinos and their operations.
Eileen McAnneny, a representative from Encore Boston Harbor, wrote in a letter that not only would roughly 1,800 employees lose their jobs, but the state's GDP would lose around $450 million, including lost tax revenue and increased expenses, thanks to an increase on problem gambling, which has risen by 7.1% from 2022 to 2024.
On the contrary, Plainridge Park Casino in Plainville did show limited support for the online gambling bill, however, they suggested that all online casino licenses should be tied to an in person casino.