Wynn Resorts has come out against a legislative push to expand online gambling in Massachusetts, submitting a letter to state lawmakers opposing a bill that would allow players to wager on casino-style games via mobile devices.
The company, which operates Encore Boston Harbor, said the proposal could affect its workforce and reduce tax revenue linked to in-person casino activity. Wynn argued that mobile gambling poses regulatory and economic risks and could shift play away from established venues.
The bill, filed by Representative David Muradian, is one of several iGaming proposals under consideration. DraftKings, headquartered in Boston, is supporting the effort, saying legalisation could generate between $170m and $275m in annual state tax revenue, depending on the model adopted. The company said expanding online gambling would also curb the use of unregulated offshore sites.
Wynn countered these arguments in its letter, saying mobile gambling could harm brick-and-mortar casinos and associated businesses. The Retailers Association of Massachusetts and several unions also expressed concern about potential job losses.
During legislative hearings, a slot attendant representing Unite Here Local 26 warned that online expansion could lead to layoffs at existing casinos. Lawmakers said employment impacts will be a major factor in evaluating the proposals.
Massachusetts has gradually expanded gambling over the past decade, authorising casinos in 2011, sports betting in 2022 and online lottery sales in 2024. In September, casinos generated $27m in tax revenue and sports betting added $10m.
Legislators now face the question of whether expanded online gambling would attract new players or reduce in-person casino activity.
The post Wynn Resorts opposes Massachusetts push to expand online gambling appeared first on G3 Newswire.
Wynn Resorts has come out against a legislative push to expand online gambling in Massachusetts, submitting a letter to state lawmakers opposing a bill that would allow players to wager on casino-style games via mobile devices. The company, which operates Encore Boston Harbor, said the proposal could affect its workforce and reduce tax revenue linked…
The post Wynn Resorts opposes Massachusetts push to expand online gambling appeared first on G3 Newswire.