Mass. Casino Plan Clears Key Hurdle

The state's plan to license casinos in Massachusetts has cleared a key hurdle.

The House Ways and Means Committee Tuesday recommended a casino bill for debate and a floor vote, which could take place as soon as next week. Lawmakers unveiled the new casino bill in late August.

Meantime, the town of Foxboro is set to hold a public hearing Tuesday on plans to change its zoning laws to allow casinos.

Foxboro Selectman Lawrence Harrington says some residents are already weighing in against the idea.

"Several people have called to discuss the fact that they think that it can change the character of a community," Harrington said. "The development could be so large and it brings with it traffic and all the issues that go with that, and issues around gambling itself."

Estimates show casinos could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in annual revenue for the state.

Earlier: