Bill > H3177

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for peer-to-peer cardrooms in Massachusetts, allowing licensed pari-mutuel facilities (such as horse racing tracks) to operate cardrooms featuring poker and dominoes games. The legislation creates a new regulatory structure under the Massachusetts Gaming Commission's Division of Racing, which will oversee licensing, operations, and taxation of these cardrooms. Key provisions include requiring cardroom operators to obtain a special license, pay an annual fee of $1,000 per gaming table, and submit to strict regulatory oversight. Players will use chips instead of cash, with games limited to between two and nine players, and dealers must be non-participating. The cardroom operator can charge a participation fee or "rake" but cannot have a direct economic interest in game outcomes. The bill imposes a 10% tax on gross receipts and potentially a 15% admission tax, with revenues split between the Gaming Local Aid Fund and the Race Horse Development Fund. To ensure integrity, the bill mandates detailed record-keeping, background checks for employees, and provides for potential license suspension or revocation for violations. Importantly, these cardrooms are explicitly defined as distinct from casino gaming, with games played peer-to-peer rather than against the house, and are intended to provide additional entertainment options and generate revenue for the state.

Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3177