PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Having lost its bid for voter approval to become a full-scale casino, Newport Grand is asking the General Assembly for financial relief.
DIANE HURLEY
Owner Diane Hurley confirmed Thursday that legislation has been drafted, for introduction as early as Thursday, to increase Newport Grand's share of the video-Lottery game revenue from 27.8 percent to 31 percent for two years, so it can keep an additional $1.5 million each year.
Hurley said Newport Grand is looking for some "breathing space'' after losing its casino bid, so it can "protect jobs and revenues to the state, and make sure we have enough resources to continue marketing ourselves appropriately, but with a short window.''
Hurley said she expects the bill will be introduced in the Senate by Majority Whip and Lottery Oversight Commission member Maryellen Goodwin and in the House by Rep. Marvin Abney.