QUINCY — Democratic candidate for State Senate John F. Keenan said he supports expanded gaming in Massachusetts, but not slot parlors. “The people of Massachusetts already spend hundreds of millions of dollars every year at casinos, they should have the the option of spending those dollars in their home state,” said Keenan. “However, while destination casinos can be part of a diverse and healthy state economy, studies have shown that slot parlors often have a negative economic impact.” After several years of debate, the Legislature on the final day of formal sessions this year approved an expanded gaming bill that would have legalized three destination resort casinos and slot parlors at two of the state’s racetracks. The bill was rejected by Gov. Deval Patrick who said he would only approve a bill calling for one slot parlor. “Legalizing casino gambling would create thousands of construction jobs as well as thousands of permanent positions for people working at the casinos,” said Keenan, “but the job creation benefits of destination casinos do not apply to allowing slots at existing racetracks.” Keenan said his support for casinos would be dependent on a strong regulatory structure that protects the integrity of the industry and the interests of taxpayers. “We must ensure that there is no revolving door between those serving in government and those involved in the casino industry, and we must seek to guarantee the maximum amount of revenue for the taxpayers of the Commonwealth,” he said. Keenan also pointed out that studies show casinos and slot parlors often cause a loss of economic activity in neighboring areas. (continued) www.KeenanforSenate.com P.O. Box 690-168 Quincy, Massachusetts 02269 617-773-4JFK info@KeenanforSenate.com “The combination of three destination casinos and two slot parlors impacts too many communities and would oversaturate the market immediately,” said Keenan. “Appropriately located destination casinos alone, not slot parlors, provide the Commonwealth with the best opportunity to safeguard the interests of the communities that host them, minimize the impact on neighboring communities, as well as attract business from out-of-state players. Keenan said as the state continues to address important issues such as casino gambling that it is important for elected officials to send a clear mesage on where they stand. “Unlike my opponent, my position on expanding gaming will remain consistent: I support appropriately located and strictly regulated destination resort casinos, and I oppose slot parlors,” he said.