Many states across the country are struggling with billions of dollars in budget gaps and several of them are considering expanding some form of gambling to generate much needed revenue. Lawmakers in Massachusetts today are expected to begin debating a bill to license two resort-style casinos in the state and to introduce slot machines at the state’s racetracks. Proponents of the plan say expanded gambling in Massachusetts could create as many as 15,000 jobs and reduce the state’s budget deficit.
In the second of two stories we’re doing on this subject this week, we’re looking at how Massachusetts’ neighbor Connecticut has fared with the Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort casinos. We speak with Jared Bowen, a reporter at WGBH, about his reporting from Norwich, Connecticut which borders the casinos.
Our partner, WGBH, is taking an in-depth look at the casino gambling debate in Massachusetts and considering what it means for people living and working in the Commonwealth with The Last Resort – a TV and radio series airing this week.
The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!