The Mohegan Tribe already operates a highly successful casino in Connecticut but is looking to Massachusetts for more opportunities.

The tribe signed an agreement for a $1 billion casino in western Massachusetts. The effort is backed by Leon H. Dragone, who owns the land where the facility would be built, and a wealthy group of investors.

Dragone, the president of a gambling consulting company called Northeast Resorts, has failed in prior efforts to bring gaming to the state. But he thinks the chances for success are good since Gov. Deval Patrick (D) is championing legislation to authorize three commercial casinos.

A hearing on the bill is set to take place next month. The Teamsters union is backing the legislation and has been lobbying lawmakers who have voted against gaming in the past.

Get the Story:
Casino backer sees big payoff (The Springfield Republican 2/19)
Casino lobbyists going all-in (The Cape Cod Times 2/19)
Task Force declines to voice casino opposition (Gatehouse Media 2/18)