Gambling bills running out of time in Connecticut

Concerns have been raised in the Connecticut General Assembly that several measures relating to gambling expansion have not made significant progress as the legislature’s adjournment date of May 9 nears.

The bills affected deal with tribal and land casino matters, and an important measure positioning Connecticut to move quickly in the event of a favourable US Supreme Court decision on more liberalised sports betting.

A number of lawmakers are known to favour a more cautious approach, calling for an independent study of the gambling issues before any decisions are made.

House Speaker Joe Aresimowicz this week said lawmakers “need to move forward with a comprehensive plan of what gambling looks like.” But his comments came a day after the Appropriations Committee defeated a bill that would have funded an estimated $500,000 to $750,000 strategic plan for gambling expansion.

On sports betting, the Department of Consumer Protection commissioner has already been tasked to adopt regulations for sports betting, but the agency has said it needs more precise direction.

Another bill sitting on the House calendar mandates the commissioner to adopt regulations when the federal law is changed.

The Connecticut General Assembly 2018 Regular Session convened February 7th and adjourns May 9th.