Connecticut officials seem less concerned about potential impacts the MGM Springfield casino is having on slot machine revenue at the two tribal casinos in their state. Our panel takes a look at that and other news of the week.
Connecticut receives a 25 percent cut on slot machine revenue from Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun. They had been expecting a 25 percent drop, but this week instead annouced it would be closer to 9 percent. Our panel points out the numbers reflect well on Connecticut's conservative forecasting — but on the Massachusetts side, it's "another promise unfulfilled."
Also this week, Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker released his version of the new state budget. In it is a $1.1 billion hike in school funding over seven years, much of it targeted to economically disadvantaged students. And some education adovcates say the plan takes too long to put into place, and otherwise isn't adequate.
The latest campaign finance data released this week shows former Massachusetts Senate President Stan Rosenberg has been actively using his campaign account after leaving office in May. He spent money on items including legal fees, phone bills and on a hotel for a legislative conference in California. State regulations allow use of the funds to further one's political future, but not for personal reasons.
And lastly: Springfield will soon play host to the American Hockey League all-star events. This seemed unlikely three years ago, when the former Falcons franchise was sold and moved to Arizona. But the Thunderbirds club that replaced them has been doing better business at the box office, and is in playoff contention this season.
Guests:
- Dave Eisenstadter, Daily Hampshire Gazette
- Ron Chimelis, columnist, Springfield Republican
Listen to all our The Short List podcasts.
Disclosure: MGM has purchased underwriting from New England Public Radio publicizing the company's non-gambling activities. The NEPR newsroom operates independently of the station's development department, and editorial decisions are made without regard to any funding relationships.
