The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has announced that it has voted in favor of awarding a retail sports betting license to Plainridge Park Casino.
The announcement comes shortly after the MGC had deferred its decision on the awarding of a license to the casino due to owner Penn Entertainment’s association with Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy. At the time of the deferral, the MGC had voiced its concern over news articles regarding Portnoy’s alleged problem gambling issues. The MGC was worried that his ties to Penn Entertainment would send the wrong signals to young people.
At yesterday’s meeting Plainridge Park Casino presented its case to the Commission. Following a review, commissioners voted in favor of awarding a temporary Category 1 sports wagering operator license. However, the issuance of the license comes with two conditions:
- No persons under the age of 21 will be allowed to attend any Barstool Sports College Football Show events.
- Barstool must cooperate fully with a full investigation into the company’s branding and marketing.
The MGC has set a goal to launch retail Massachusetts sports wagering in late January 2023 and mobile sports wagering in March 2023.
An experienced iGaming commentator and analyst based in New York City - Jenny reports on regulation and gambling industry news and events.