Despite heavy opposition from specific lawmakers in the state of Connecticut, a new bill to add a third casino in the state has moved forward. With a vote of 88-55 by the House of Representatives, a bill to begin the process of possibly opening a new casino operated by tribal interest will be moving on to Governor Dannel P. Malloy for consideration.

Unlike the first version of the bill, the new language of the measure does not authorize additional gambling in the state. This bill will require the Indian tribes to come back to legislature with an agreement for development that lawmakers must consider before a new casino can be created. Representative Stephen Dargan pointed out this information of the bill and stated the measure will help to show neighboring Massachusetts that Connecticut is acting seriously when it comes to protecting jobs.

In Springfield Massachusetts, MGM Resorts is planning on opening a new casino which could harm the gambling industry of Connecticut. Based on a consultation completed per the Mashantucket Pequots and the Mohegan tribe, the competition from MGM could result in almost 10,000 jobs being affected in the region.

In response to the movement of the measure, the Indian tribes of Connecticut issued a joint statement. In the statement, both tribes expressed gratitude for the bill and hope that the governor will sign the measure into law.