A Message from Chair Cathy Judd-Stein

March 31, 2020
by MGC Communications
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I wish to extend my thoughts and profound concern for the health and safety of you and your loved ones as we navigate this unprecedented and challenging time.

At MGC, our hearts are heavy about COVID-19’s growing impact across our great Commonwealth, the nation, and the world. The MGC is closely monitoring and assessing this rapidly evolving public health crisis and specifically its effect on the state’s expanded gaming industry. We are committed to providing frequent updates and have launched a dedicated webpage to help everyone stay informed regarding the latest MGC actions and developments.

In response to the Coronavirus pandemic, the Commission made the difficult but necessary decision to temporarily suspend casino and racing operations at an emergency public meeting convened on Saturday, March 14 at 10 a.m. That swift action was taken after up-to-date consultation with public health experts and our licensees, who like the Commission, prioritized the health and well-being of casino guests, employees, and regulators.

MGC and our licensees remain in close consultation with public health authorities and government officials to determine safe protocols and suitable timing for resuming operation. As we develop the appropriate course of action, we will continue to keep everyone informed of the next steps.

On behalf of my fellow Commissioners, I want to recognize our licensees for demonstrating collaborative and compassionate leadership as community members and corporate partners here in the Commonwealth during this difficult time.

I sincerely appreciate our internal team for their ongoing hard work and steady focus, ensuring the continuity of MGC’s operational and regulatory duties – with the vital assistance of remote technology. I am also proud that our team continues to identify ways in which our agency can do our part to stop the spread of COVID-19. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to donate thousands of rubber gloves to first responders and the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency. We were also able to provide needed live stream equipment to Governor Baker’s office, supporting the balance of safety in a time of social distancing while prioritizing the public’s access to critical information.

Finally, we wish to thank all of those who are on the front line, working to safeguard our health and well-being. The MGC extends our heartfelt gratitude to all who are risking their own safety to protect that of others, including our healthcare professionals, first responders, members of the military and the many critical supply line workers.

On behalf of the entire MGC, we wish everyone safety and good health. This experience will no doubt test our endurance, but I have faith that it will ultimately confirm our collective resiliency. Together, we will overcome.

Stay well.

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A Message from Chair Cathy Judd-Stein