Senator Kissel Voices Opposition to Casino Deal on Senate Floor

HARTFORD, Conn. – Today State Senator John A. Kissel (R-Enfield) stood in opposition to Senate Bill 957, An Act Concerning the Regulation of Gaming and the Authorization of a Casino Facility in the State.

“I have continued to voice my opposition to the establishment of a casino in East Windsor,” said Sen. Kissel. “There are some serious legal challenges to this casino especially as it relates to equal-protection, the commerce clause and due process. As a state we should not be opening ourselves up to litigation. This bill could open a Pandora’s box of unintended consequences including the proliferation of more casinos, especially in Fairfield County.”

The bill authorizes the operation of one off-reservation casino gaming facility in East Windsor, once certain conditions are met, subject to regulation by the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP). DCP regulates all legalized gambling in the state.

“Legal challenges are not the sole basis for my opposition,” said Sen. Kissel. “Many families in my district are very concerned with the adverse impact it will have on our communities, this will not enhance the quality of life in my district. For these reasons and many others I cannot support this legislation, it not only puts our state finances at risk, but it also has the potential to have a negative impact on many of the communities that I represent.”

SB 957 passed the Connecticut State Senate with a 24-12 vote.