Summary:

The objective of this research is to monitor and describe changes in lottery revenue statewide, in Springfield, and in the communities surrounding MGM Springfield for the purpose of identifying potential impacts associated with expanded casino gambling. This report first briefly describes overall sales trends in Massachusetts during the first year of operation of MGM Springfield. This is important because lottery sales statewide are the largest source of local aid for all communities. This is followed by a more detailed analysis of Springfield and the designated surrounding communities. While the amount of local aid going to these communities is not based on local lottery sales, but instead statewide sales overall, a more detailed local analysis is important since any potential impact on lottery sales from the casino may be more pronounced and have greater economic impact (on the earnings of local lottery vendors, for example) nearer the casino if gamblers that live near the casino are more likely to visit than those living at greater distance.