MGC Approves Reopening Rules For Massachusetts Casinos

The state’s two resort-casinos and slots parlor must adhere to a set of minimum reopening requirements established by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC).

Casino enthusiasts are still eagerly awaiting the reopening of Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield, and Plainridge Park Casino. However, these establishments are not able to resume operations until Massachusetts reaches phase three of its statewide reopening plan.

MA casinos could open by mid-July

After three hours-long meetings this month, the commission members voted 5-0 in favor of approving the reopening guidelines.

The meetings entailed thorough discussions on how to balance the health and financial concerns of patrons at the three locations.

Since March 14, the gambling sites have remained closed. Massachusetts state officials have indicated that phase three will commence no earlier than July 6, although the specific date is contingent upon health factors.

Casinos anticipate requiring an extra 10-14 days for preparations once phase three commences.

“In a statement, MGC Chair Cathy Judd-Stein stated that the MGC is committed to guaranteeing a secure and environmentally responsible reopening. Today, they have released guidelines that will adapt over time to align with the evolving public health data.”

We have full confidence in our three licensees’ commitment to diligently implement and enforce these measures in good faith.

Judd-Stein added:

We are aware that for a reopening to be successful, it will be necessary for casino patrons to work together, be mindful of their surroundings, and show empathy towards each other and the larger community.

Required health and safety measures for casinos

Prior to reopening, the three sites must submit a plan that satisfies several prerequisites.

• Guests must be screened and face masks are required.
• To ensure proper distancing between slot positions, it is important to either keep a minimum of 6 feet of space between them or alternatively, install plexiglass dividers spanning 6 feet in length.
• Place plexiglass barriers on blackjack-style tables to create a division between dealers and players, as well as between players themselves.
• A maximum of three blackjack players permitted, removing any empty chairs.
• There will be no poker, craps, or roulette allowed until further notice.

In order to comply with regulations, casinos must restrict the number of people allowed inside, which is determined by multiplying the available gaming positions by three. As for restaurants, they will adhere to the current state guidelines.

Casino representatives had expressed concerns previously regarding the requirement for plexiglass to be installed between slot machines within a distance of less than 6 feet.

Last week, it was argued that sites were ill-prepared to install plexiglass, which ultimately led to the MGC’s decision to postpone its final vote.

Casino representatives emphasized once more on Tuesday the challenging aspects of Massachusetts’ guidelines, particularly the obstacles involved in acquiring and installing 6-foot-tall plexiglass prior to reopening.

It is highly probable that MGM will reopen without plexiglass, resulting in a reduced number of slot machines placed 6 feet apart. This, in turn, will lower the casino’s overall slot count and potential revenue.

“MGM Springfield’s vice president and general counsel, Seth Stratton, expressed his opinion that we are currently not adequately prepared to open in early July with plexiglass on slot machines. This would result in a substantial reduction in our offerings.”

Casino questions strict drinking guidelines

While the collaboration between the MGC and casino representatives has generally been smooth, there have been occasional disagreements.

Casinos must exert “reasonable efforts” to prevent patrons from carrying drinks through gaming areas.

Commissioners explained that the ban aims to prevent individuals from removing their masks while walking amidst a crowd to have a drink. To address this concern, customers will be exclusively served beverages while seated and engaged in gaming activities.

Stratton opposed the measure.

Stratton raised doubts regarding the legitimacy of considering mask-wearing patrons a “public health concern” when they are allowed to carry drinks from game to game without consuming them.

He pointed out that the biggest challenge lies in people’s desire to move around responsibly. Additionally, there is a substantial amount of time between being served a drink and finding a cocktail server to serve another.

Patrons perceive others not as recipients of free drinks, but rather as individuals who have rightfully earned them.

The commissioners remained firm in their decision, asserting that permitting individuals to carry beverages would generate an atmosphere closely resembling that of a bar. It is important to note that bars in Massachusetts are not permitted to resume operations until phase four.

Commissioner Eileen O’Brien expressed her concern that permitting individuals to roam freely could potentially violate the existing [state guidelines].

Based on the current public health situation in MA, Gov. Charlie Baker’s office may impose additional guidelines on casinos.