Lawmakers hear testimony on casino bill

BOSTON (AP) - Massachusetts lawmakers are weighing testimony from the public on a range of gambling bills, from measures that would license casinos to proposals to allow slot machines at the state's racetracks.

Gov. Deval Patrick tried but failed last year to win approval of three resort-style casinos. His principal opponent, former House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi, has since resigned and new Speaker Robert DeLeo backs expanded gaming.

The same is true of Senate President Therese Murray.

The question now is whether to push toward the resorts, add slot machines at racetracks or do some combination.

Among those pushing for casinos at Thursday's hearing were hundreds of construction workers who say expanding gaming could create 20,000 jobs. Opponents warn about the social costs of gambling, such as debt and divorce.