Encore Boston Harbor in favour of sports betting
The facility is in favour of a proposal that would legalise sports betting at Massachusetts casinos.
US.- Charlie Baker, governor of Massachusetts, unveiled last week a proposal that aims to legalise and tax sports betting at both online and local casinos. A Wynn Resorts spokesman said that the company is in favor of it, as if it gets approved, Encore Boston Harbor could be one of the facilities that offer the modality.
Michael Weaver, spokesman for Wynn Resorts, said that while the casino hasn’t reviewed Baker’s proposal, it supports the expansion of gaming in the state, which includes sports betting. “We’ve not yet had the opportunity to study the bill, and therefore cannot comment on the specifics of it. However, we do support the concept and introduction of sports betting in the Commonwealth.” said Weaver.
Baker said that he would file legislation to allow the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) to license the three casino operators in the state to offer on-site and online sports betting. This legislation would also pave the way for other operators, such as daily fantasy sports (DFS) entities to be licensed for sports betting.
“Our legislation puts forth a series of commonsense proposals to ensure potential licensees are thoroughly vetted and safeguards are in place to protect against problem gambling and illegal activity,” said Baker in a statement.
The legislative piece would set a 10% tax on sports betting inside casinos, while online bets would be taxed at 12.5%; DFS operators are included in this category. The MGC would oversee sports betting operations both online and at casinos. Official estimations said that taxes would raise US$35 million in Massachusetts’ next fiscal year, with the money from operations going towards local cities and towns. Bets on collegiate sports or amateur events would be prohibited.
