House Passes Multi-Step Process For New Connecticut Casino

HARTFORD, Conn. (CBSNewYork/AP) — A bill that creates a multi-step process for possibly opening a new tribal casino in Connecticut is heading to the governor.

The House of Representatives voted 88-55 in favor of the legislation early Friday. The bill previously cleared the Senate.

The measure is a retooled version of a bill which would have allowed the tribes that own Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resorts Casinos to open up to three casinos to help combat out-of-state gambling competition.

But Senator Tony Hwang says gambling and the expansion of it in Connecticut does nothing to enhance the community's image, WCBS 880's Fran Schneidau reports. Senator Hwang was among the lawmakers voting against the bill allowing construction of the casino.

"I strongly encourage the Governor to consider the long term implications of this," Senator Hwang said.

The Attorney General warned that legislation could prompt legal challenges.

This new bill allows the Mohegans and Mashantucket Pequots to enter into a development agreement with one host community. That deal would need legislative approval.

Rep. Stephen Dargan says the bill shows Connecticut wants to protect jobs in southeastern Connecticut. Opponents questioned that thinking.

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