Concerns over increasing COVID-19 cases led the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to reject requests by casino operators to offer tournament poker, roulette and craps as part of their gaming options in the state.
In light of the ongoing pandemic, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission has made the decision to temporarily halt the introduction of new gaming options such as tournament poker, roulette, and craps in the state’s casinos. This decision comes after careful consideration of the rising COVID-19 cases, ensuring that health and safety remain the top priority. While some casinos, like MGM Springfield and Encore Boston Harbor, are eager to expand their offerings, the timing for such an expansion is currently deemed inappropriate. Stakeholders are committed to following state guidelines and will seek future opportunities for the return of these popular games. For more insights into the gaming landscape, visit jokerbet-online.com.
While commission members were pleased with compliance by MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor and Plainridge Park, allowing additional games to resume at this time was deemed untimely given governor Charlie Baker’s decision to scale back certain aspects of the state’s reopening.
“It seems that expansion of operations at this time, following so quickly on the heels of what the administration is directing, would not be appropriate at this time,” said Commission chief enforcement counsel Loretta Lillios during a Thursday video conference.
MGM Springfield and Encore, which opened in early July after a four-month shutdown, recently asked the commission to allow for roulette and craps to resume. However, Encore is situated in a risky area, with infection rates among some of the highest in the state, according to Baker’s administration.
Both MGM Springfield and Encore currently offer slot machines and blackjack, but poker rooms and large games remain off-limits. Plainridge Park only has slot machines operating at this time.
According to the Commission, the request to add roulette and craps will remain on the table for future discussions.
“We appreciate the Gaming Commission’s thoughtful consideration and will continue to work collaboratively to determine when it’s appropriate to offer more amenities to our guests,” leaders of MGM Springfield said in a statement.
Encore public affairs chief Eric Kraus also commented, pledging ongoing compliance with State guidelines: “We fully support the directives given by [Baker’s administration] and the MGC and will adhere to them.”