Saturday, April 14, 2007

House Speaker Sal DiMasi said proposals to expand gambling should be subject to hearings, rather than passed during a quick floor vote. DiMasi opposes expanding legal gambling beyond the Massachusetts Lottery and the state's four racetracks. Gov. Deval Patrick said he hasn't taken a position on expanding gambling. His administration is reviewing the issue but won't have a recommendation until August. The Mashpee Wampanoag Indians hope to build a casino should the state expands legalized gambling. The Wampanoags received federal recognition as a tribe on Feb. 15, and they've been lobbying at the Statehouse for legislation allowing them to build a casino.