MGM Ruled Suitable For Springfield Casino Plan

The state's gambling commission has cleared the way for MGM Resorts to pursue a casino in Springfield.

The five-member panel on Monday issued a positive determination of suitability for MGM. The decision came after a favorable recommendation that was made earlier in the month by the commission's investigative arm after a lengthy background check.

MGM is the only remaining applicant for the only western Massachusetts resort casino license. The commission is expected to decide whether to issue the license in the spring.

Also Monday, Mohegan Sun, Suffolk Downs and the city of Revere announced they had reached a revised host community agreement. It would guarantee the city $33 million in upfront payments and at least $25 million in annual payments if a casino is built entirely within the eastern Massachusetts city.