Thanks to each of you who responded to the survey in the last issue on casino gambling as well as those who contacted my office. Your feedback on this important issue was helpful.

 

Knowing your concerns and having concerns of my own about casinos' effects on communities and local economies, I voted in opposition to the casino gaming bill when it came before the House for a vote. In response to the proposal for a casino in Milford and to give our towns more say, I filed an amendment that would have required towns within 4 miles of a casino site to approve the siting at the polls, which unfortunately was not adopted.

 

The House bill, which permits 2 resort casinos and licenses for slots at the race tracks, passed with a wide majority. The Senate bill, with 3 resort casinos and no slots at the race tracks, passed as well. The two bills are now in conference committee where a final bill will be produced over the next few weeks and sent to the Governor for either his signature or a veto.

 

I will continue to weigh in in favor of more local control over a Milford casino and to ensure the voice of our communities is clearly heard in the process. If you would like to make your thoughts known on the issue, I encourage you to contact the Governor's office at the following address.