NEWPORT, R.I. - Senate President M. Teresa Paiva Weed has reversed her long-held opposition to casino gambling in her home city of Newport, and endorsed the drives by the Newport Grand and Twin River video-slot parlors to offer live casino-style table games such as blackjack.
The proposals are on the November 6 ballot.
She said: "Increased competition from casinos in Massachusetts will have a serious impact on jobs and revenue from Newport Grand and Twin River. A study commissioned by the state has shown that adding table games at the facilities could help to mitigate the loss in revenue.''
She said passage of the referenda will preserve and create jobs
"For these reasons, and after much reflection and discussion with constituents, I have chosen to support the referenda allowing for table games at Newport Grand and Twin River."