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State of Play
- State lawmakers in Massachusetts are currently debating the future of online casino gambling, with Wynn Resorts voicing significant resistance.
- As the dominant casino operator in the Commonwealth, Wynn warns that online casinos could harm brick-and-mortar casinos and increase problem gambling rates, impacting local jobs and tax revenues.
Last week, the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies reviewed proposals on Massachusetts online casinos, spotlighting opposition from Wynn Resorts.
Wynn’s sole domestic casino, Encore Boston Harbor in Everett, submitted testimony against legalizing iGaming.
Eileen McAnney, Wynn’s executive director of government relations, argued that real-money online casinos would drive up problem gambling while cannibalizing revenue streams crucial to the state, including slot and table game taxes, hotel and entertainment revenue, and purchases from local suppliers.
Wynn points to its monthly $15 million contributions to state revenues and the employment of approximately 3,000 people at the casino, emphasizing the risk online gambling poses to this ecosystem.
Wynn previously backed online casinos
The debate has national dimensions, as only seven states currently permit online casinos. Notably, Wynn Resorts has stepped back from the online casino sector, despite previously operating through its WynnBet platform across multiple states.
Wynn and Las Vegas Sands remain consistent in their opposition to internet gambling and online sports betting, contrasting with peers like MGM Online Casino and Caesars Online Casino, which have expanded into online casino markets.
Meanwhile, lobbyists from the iDevelopment & Economic Association (iDEA), representing platforms like DraftKings Online Casino and FanDuel Online Casino, argue that illegal online gambling platforms are already accessed by Massachusetts residents. iDEA advocates for legal iGaming as a method to protect consumers, promote responsible gambling, and secure sustainable tax revenue without undermining land-based casinos.
MA lawmakers must weigh pros and cons
Massachusetts lawmakers face ongoing decisions regarding the legalization of online casinos, balancing the economic impacts and social concerns raised by Wynn against the regulatory frameworks proposed by industry supporters.
The evolving national trend suggests growing acceptance of online gambling, but the state’s dominant casino operator continues to advocate for caution.
Players and industry watchers should anticipate further legislative debate as the state works to reconcile these competing interests.
Based on reporting by Devin O’Connor for Casino.org.
