The Bet That Could Cost Massachusetts: Encore Warns Against Online Gambling Bill

There's a serious debate brewing here in Massachusetts, and it revolves around something many folks might find exciting: online gambling. But for Encore Boston Harbor, one of our state's major entertainment and employment hubs, the excitement is overshadowed by deep concern. They’re unequivocally calling a proposed online gambling bill a "bad bet" for the Commonwealth, and frankly, their arguments deserve a good, long look.

You see, Encore isn't just another business; it's a massive investment, a sprawling resort that brought thousands of jobs and significant economic development right to our doorstep. We're talking about real people, real careers, and a tangible impact on our communities. Their message is clear: introducing online gambling isn't just adding a new option; it threatens to directly undermine the very existence and success of places like Encore.

Think about it for a moment. If people can gamble from their couch, anytime, anywhere, what happens to the bustling energy and steady stream of visitors at a physical casino? Encore fears, quite reasonably, that online platforms would "cannibalize" their existing customer base. This isn't just about market share; it's about the fundamental economics that keep the lights on and paychecks flowing. Less foot traffic, fewer players at the tables, and ultimately, less revenue for the resort.

And when revenue takes a hit, it's not just the shareholders who feel it. The real casualties could be the thousands of dedicated employees who make Encore tick. We're talking about dealers, waitstaff, security personnel, hotel staff, cleaners – a diverse workforce that relies on the casino's stability. Encore warns that an online gambling bill could easily lead to significant job losses, which would be a harsh blow to our local economy, especially in Everett and surrounding areas.

Let's not forget the state's coffers, either. Physical casinos like Encore contribute a substantial amount in tax revenue to Massachusetts. This money goes towards public services, education, infrastructure – things that benefit all of us. If a significant portion of gambling activity shifts online, much of that tax revenue could dry up, or at least be significantly diminished, potentially impacting essential state programs. It’s a bit like swapping a known, reliable income source for something far more uncertain.

There are also the crucial questions of responsible gambling and consumer protection. While Encore, like all regulated casinos, has strict protocols in place to address problem gambling, the accessibility and anonymity of online platforms present unique challenges. It’s simply easier for someone to fall into unhealthy patterns when the barrier to entry is just a few clicks away, often without the same in-person oversight.

Encore's stance isn't just self-serving; it's a plea to protect what's already been built and what's currently working well for Massachusetts. They made a massive commitment to our state, creating a vibrant destination and a wealth of opportunities. Now, they're asking policymakers to carefully consider the potential ripple effects before making a decision that could gamble away the future of local businesses and thousands of jobs for the allure of a new, unproven revenue stream. It seems we need to weigh the potential benefits against some very real and potentially devastating consequences.