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Massachusetts Governor meets with casino execs

BOSTON, Massachusetts – As reported by the South Coast Today: "The gambling industry is preparing for another all-out rush on Beacon Hill, with Gov.-elect Deval Patrick leaving the door open to the possibility of legalizing casinos and slot machines in Massachusetts.

"Patrick says he remains 'skeptical' of gambling. But he plans to meet with gambling proponents early in his tenure as governor. He is expected to decide by March.

"…Patrick used to gamble occasionally at Foxwoods in Connecticut with his late mother. But he said his biggest concern is the social costs of allowing slots and casinos in Massachusetts.

"Lobbyists will point to state revenue from gambling as one way Patrick can meet some of his campaign promises, including property tax relief and putting 1,000 new police officers on the streets.

"…Just by keeping the door open, Patrick has raised the hopes of race tracks and casino interests after they suffered a crushing defeat in the House last spring. It is also a drastically different message than the one from the current governor…"

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