The Future of Gaming in Massachusetts: A New Era for Tribal Casinos
The First Light Casino Welcome is hoping to expand its gaming operations and bring new experiences to its players.
The Current State of the Casino
The tribal casino in Massachusetts currently offers 50 slot-like electronic bingo machines, which has been increased from an initial 10 machines after striking a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the City of Taunton in March. The facility also expanded its hours to seven days a week, 10 am to 10 pm Sunday through Thursday, and to 10 am until midnight on Friday and Saturday.
The Plan for Expansion
Now, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is petitioning to amend the revenue-sharing agreement with city officials to house up to 250 electronic gaming terminals. This move aims to increase revenue for the casino while providing more entertainment options for players.
The Impact of Alcohol on Gaming
Along with seeking to expand its gaming operations, the tribe also wants to bring alcohol to the facility. The City of Taunton Board of License Commissioners will first consider the liquor application on Tuesday night.
The Future of the Casino: A Permanent Facility
The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe has been pursuing a Mohegan Sun or Foxwoods-like tribal casino resort with traditional slots and live-dealer table games since 2012. However, the State of Massachusetts has refused to enter into a Class III compact to allow such a facility to be constructed.
Challenges Ahead
Years of legal wranglings regarding whether the Mashpee’s land in East Taunton should be included in the federal trust resulted in the tribe’s previous financier and would-be casino operator, Malaysia-based Genting, dissolving ties with the tribe. Finding a partner for a tribal casino that would only be allowed to operate Class II gaming has proven difficult.
Conclusion
The future of gaming in Massachusetts is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is committed to providing its players with exciting new experiences. With plans to expand its gaming operations and bring alcohol to the facility, the tribe is poised for a bright future.