The desire for sports betting may be driving the effort, but the proposal prepared this month also includes internet gambling, including games like poker and keno.
The political parties supporting this bill are the Democrats (Senators Catherine Osten and Steve Cassano), along with Representatives (Kevin Ryan, Christine Conley, Emmett Riley, Joe de la Cruz, and Susan Johnson). And finally, the state’s Republicans, (Senators Heather Somers, Paul Formica, Doug Dubitsky, Mike France, and Holly Cheeseman).
The statement of purpose for the bill notes that additional revenue and jobs from operating sports wagering, internet gambling, and internet keno will enhance the revenue the state receives from the tribal gambling entities in Connecticut.
It will also ensure that the state’s gaming and tourism industries remain competitive while also protecting online wagering customers.
The proposal is currently in the Committee for Public Safety and Security. The first organizational meeting of the committee in 2019 showed that some discussions on the topic are necessary. State Senator Dennis Bradley, has long supported a new casino in the state, and he may want online gambling and sports wagering for that property in the future.
