A poll by the Western New England College Polling Institute finds Massachusetts residents are evenly divided on legislation to authorize three commercial casinos.

Of respondents, 41 percent are in favor of the plan while 42 percent are opposed. Another 17 percent are neutral, according to the results.

Gov. Deval Patrick (D) says the casinos will generate jobs and revenues. His plan gives tribal bidders preference in the process, which will be debated at a public hearing in Boston today.

The Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe, backed by the Seneca Nation of New York, is interested in bidding. The Mohegan Tribe, which already owns a highly successful casino in Connecticut, also wants a casino.

If the plan is legalized, Class III gaming will be available to the Aquinnah Wampanoag and the newly recognized Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe. The Mashpees are pursuing a casino under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

None of the tribes are sending witnesses to testify. Kevin Washburn, a former National Indian Gaming Commission attorney, and Judy Shapiro, who represents tribes, are on the witness list and are described by Gatehouse News Service as supporters of Patrick's plan.

Get the Story:
New poll finds state residents split on casino (The Cape Cod 3/18)
Patrick gears up for hearing on casinos (The Springfield Republican 3/17)
Gov. Deval Patrick’s casino plan to get a hearing (GateHouse News Service 3/17)