Massachusetts smokefree casino opening leads to reduced gaming at smoking-permitted Rhode Island casino
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The August 31, 2015 news clip in the Providence Journal reported that since June when Plainridge’s gaming opened in Massachusetts, Rhode Island’s gaming revenues have declined almost 4%. Plainridge generated $18 million in gross revenues in its first month of operation (in June). The state collects a 49% tax rate on gross revenues.
Plainridge is 100% smokefree, as opposed to Rhode Island’s casinos where smoking is allowed. The new Plainridge Park Casino in Plainville, Massachusetts has 1,200 slot machines, video poker and virtual table games.
Three other casinos will be opening in Massachusetts, all 100% smokefree, as required by state law, even for tribal casinos. The Providence Journal noted that Plainridge is the smallest of the four Massachusetts gaming venues. MGM is building an $800-million resort casino in Springfield, Wynn Resorts is building a $1.7-billion venue in Everett, just north of Boston, and a fourth casino is planned for Southeastern Massachusetts, possibly in Brockton.
GASP provided educational technical assistance when Massachusetts’ gaming legislation was being drafted.
Read positive feedback from patrons at Plainridge’s Facebook page
Learn more about the Plain Ridge Park Casino at www.plainridgeparkcasino.com