• Western Mass Left High and Dry After Senate Rejects Casino Aid

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — The Massachusetts State Senate has rejected amendments that would have restored approximately $3 million in annual casino mitigation funding for Springfield and surrounding Western Massachusetts communities impacted by the MGM Springfield casino. The decision, made during debates on October 23 and 24, 2025, has sparked criticism from local leaders who argue the state is neglecting its commitments under the 2011 Expanded Gaming Act.

 

The Community Mitigation Fund, established to offset the social and infrastructure costs of casino developments, has been a lifeline for Springfield and nearby towns since MGM Springfield opened in 2018. The fund has distributed over $56 million statewide since 2015, supporting public safety, traffic improvements, and community programs in host and surrounding communities like West Springfield, Chicopee, and Holyoke. However, the fiscal year 2025 budget eliminated these funds, redirecting resources to statewide priorities, including $10 million for 2026 FIFA World Cup mitigation in the Boston area.

 

Springfield’s City Council unanimously passed a resolution on October 22, 2025, urging the state to restore the funding. Mayor Domenic Sarno emphasized the city’s reliance on the funds for police, fire, and infrastructure needs exacerbated by casino-related activity. “This is about fairness,” Sarno said in a statement reported by WWLP. “Western Massachusetts deserves the support promised when we welcomed MGM.”

 

On October 23, the Senate considered two amendments to a supplemental spending bill to reinstate the $3 million. Sen. Adam Gomez, representing Springfield, underscored the funds’ importance for public safety and economic stability, warning that their loss could have “devastating policy consequences,” according to Casino.org. Sen. Jake Oliveira, another Western Massachusetts advocate, echoed calls for regional equity, noting the state’s redirection of funds to eastern Massachusetts projects.

 

Despite these pleas, both amendments were rejected. The decision has drawn sharp rebukes from local leaders. “We will keep fighting for what’s rightfully ours,” Sarno told MIX 93.1, vowing to continue pressing state officials. The rejection leaves Springfield and neighboring communities grappling with how to address ongoing casino-related challenges without the anticipated financial support.

 

The debate highlights tensions over resource allocation in Massachusetts, with Western Massachusetts leaders arguing that their region is being sidelined. As the state prioritizes high-profile events like the FIFA World Cup, Springfield faces the prospect of managing casino impacts with diminished resources, raising questions about the state’s commitment to equitable development across its regions.