Connecticut to Stop Bridgeport Casino Project

Connecticut Governor, Ned Lamont, expressed a negative opinion on the Bridgeport tribal casino project, occurring between Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan Indian tribes. Lamont advised lawmakers to drop current plans as they won't result in progress.

On this occasion, the governor’s spokesperson, Maribel La Luz said:

“This 11th-hour proposal has not been fully vetted or reviewed, and with only one day until the end of the session, it’s not in the public’s best interest to take up this matter. Instead of resolving outstanding litigation, it puts the state at increased and immediate litigation risk from multiple parties.”

Commenting on the session, Senator, Dennis Bradley, observed:

“I’m hearing very positive remarks from House leadership, specifically the speaker, who is almost giddy about making this happen. And I think the tribes are willing to put skin in the game as well and make a substantive commitment to Bridgeport.”

Details

Local lawmakers have just started their summer holiday. However, there are real chances that the state General Assembly will open discussion through summer session. Both Tribes and Bridgeport Mayor, Joseph Ganim expected an official approval of the project which would support operators with $100 million in funds.

According to reports, the deal would include provisions which would provide the tribes with exclusive rights for sports and online gambling content. Ganim noticed:

“I wasn’t aware of any such arrangement, telling reporters. I have no idea, no idea. I guess we’ll just have to see what happens.”

Background of the Project

The whole story began when tribes received permission to open a satellite casino in East Windsor. This venue has been seen as a response to the MGM Springfield project in Massachusetts. It motivated MGM to open discussions regarding commercial casinos in Connecticut. The company stated that commercial casinos should operate all over the state. Later on, MGM received support from Connecticut lawmakers.

Further Complications

Over the previous months, the Department of Interior (DOI) has been hinting at the idea of tribal gaming compacts changes. DOI finally approved the changes this past March, but Mohegan Indian tribes still look for additional funds.

We expect to see further delays of the Bridgeport Casino project. MGM will do everything possible to prevent the competitor to finalize the project and keep the Springfield property safe. The company will be ready to activate all political relationships to keep regular revenues.

Source:

“Connecticut calls a halt to Bridgeport tribal casino”, Erik Gibbs, calvinayre.com, June 7, 2019.

“Ganim pitches sweet deal for tribes to open Bridgeport casino“, Mark Pazniokas, ctmirror.org, June 5, 2019.