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Massachusetts Casinos To Keep Poker Rooms Shut Until 2022

According to a report by Card Player, the gaming regulators in Massachusetts voted 4-0 to remove all the pandemic induced restrictions on the gaming operators in the Bay State this weekend. 

According to a report by the Berkshire Eagle, the new rule will allow the state’s two casinos and one slot parlor to return to gambling conditions pre-pandemic times. Cathy Judd-Stein, the Chairwoman of Massachusetts Gaming Commission reportedly told the media that the commission was really hoping that this is a sustainable re-opening for all. She also wished all the patrons and employees much health and safety. 

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Further reports stated that with the vote, the plexiglass dividers, the limit on the number of players at the table, and the social distancing measures would be removed. But it is unfortunate that neither the Encore Boston Harbor nor the MGM Springfield have announced the reopening of poker rooms. 

Reports from Card Player stated that when regulators had allowed casinos in Massachusetts to start operating again amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, they had prohibited properties from spreading craps, poker and roulette, explaining safety concerns around touching surfaces constantly used by players and staff. The regulators had relaxed some of their rules in March but had capped the number of people to 4 at the table, including the dealer. 

Daniel Miller, the Compliance Director of MGM Springfield reportedly told Berkshire Eagle that MGM Springfield was monitoring the needs for poker and the dates as to when it will come back. He stated that the decision was to be made by December 31. 

Even with the restrictions being eased, poker players in the state would now have to wait until 2022 for the rooms to re-open.      

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