Massachusetts House bill could allow historical horse racing machines at Raynham Park
The proposal has generated opposition from the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe and First Light Casino backers.
U.S.- A proposal approved by the Massachusetts House of Representatives would allow the installation of historical horse racing (HHR) machines at Raynham Park and Suffolk Downs if it survives negotiations with the Senate. The House included the provision in its version of the state’s economic development bill, but the two houses must now reconcile a final version of the document.
Critics contend that the devices function as de facto slot machines and warn they could affect business at First Light Casino, the gaming venue operated by the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe in Taunton. The tribe has criticised the provision as a “backroom deal.”
A representative for Genting, the financial backer of First Light Casino, also opposed the measure. The company argued that allowing historical horse racing machines at other locations could prevent the Taunton casino from securing the investment needed to expand the current modular trailer setup into a larger-scale venue.
While the amendment received support from the three state representatives whose districts include Taunton: Democrat Lisa Field and Republicans Justin Thurber and Norman Orrall. However, the provision, initially introduced as Amendment 386, was included as part of Consolidated Amendment D, which combined several amendments into a single package. As a result, lawmakers who voted against the amendment would also have rejected unrelated measures, including provisions on professional licences and tourism marketing.
The future of the HHR provision remains uncertain. The House and Senate must first negotiate their different versions of the economic development bill through a conference committee. Once lawmakers reach an agreement, the final version of the legislation will need to be approved before becoming law.
