Gaming interests spend $165K on lobbying in R.I.

Wednesday, March 17, 2004  

Gaming interests have spent more than $165,000 in lobbying in just the first two months of the year, The Providence Journal reports.

The Narragansett Tribe and its partner Harrah's Entertainment have a total of 10 lobbyists pushing for approval of the state's first tribal casino. The lobbyists have reported expenses on advertisements, mailings and meetings with lawmakers.

Two existing gaming facilities in the state and the the Rhode Island Greyhound Owners Association also reported heavy spending.

The tribe hopes to have a gaming referendum before voters in November, and a majority support a vote, according to a new poll. Tourism groups are opposing the tribe's casino plans.

Get the Story:
Gambling interests lay money on table (The Providence Journal 3/17)
Poll: Majority Favor Casino Vote (AP 3/17)
Island groups oppose casino (The Providence Journal 3/17)
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