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March 14, 2003

Senator Cappiello Calls on Blumenthal to Clarify Las Vegas Nights Legislation

State Senator David Cappiello (R-Danbury) is awaiting a response from State Attorney General Richard Blumenthal regarding clarification of several issues pertaining to the passage of House Bill 7501 An Act Repealing Las Vegas Night Games. At the January 28th General Law Committee Public Hearing, Senator Cappiello asked Mr. Blumenthal whether three specific “Las Vegas”-type scenarios would still be acceptable under new law.

“I raised several of questions during the public hearing and followed up with a letter to the Attorney General’s office on February 4th but have yet to receive any reply,” explained Senator Cappiello. “Many schools and non-profit organizations have contacted me asking for clarification on a number of these issues. Unfortunately, until my letter is answered, I cannot give them a definitive response.”

The Las Vegas Nights statute allowed non-profit and charitable organizations to hold casino night events to raise money. Its repeal was aimed at preventing the establishment of any new casinos in Connecticut. A legal loophole in the statute had been used as the basis for establishing Connecticut’s two casinos, Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods.

“This is not an issue of permitting gambling, it’s simply an attempt to help some worthwhile non-profit organizations with their fund raising. In fact, in the three scenarios I put forward at the committee hearing, there is no “gamble” on the outcome,” said Senator Cappiello. “For instance, I would like Mr. Blumenthal to clarify whether using roulette wheels or blackjack tables just for fun, with no prizes or monies exchanged, is still permissible under Connecticut law.”