MGC considering gambling restrictions

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Should local lawmakers be restricted from a legal activity in their own city?  That is something the Massachusetts Gaming Commission is considering.  

A policy the gaming commission is discussing is banning local officials from gambling in casinos in their own town or city.  In Springfield that would mean the Mayor, city councilors, the police chief, fire chief and others.    A fine line of who could and who couldn't gamble hasn't been drawn yet.  Springfield City Councilor John Lysak told 22News he can count on his hand how many times he's ever been to a casino, but thinks the commission is going a little overboard here.  

"It does seem a little ridiculous because the way they're thinking the license commission shouldn't
go to restaurants that serve alcohol or city councilors shouldn't go to Dunkin Donuts because they
have drive-thru's.  Should we not use anything we approve", says Lysak.

At its meeting Thursday, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission will update us on this and several other regulations it is considering.