The Massachusetts Gaming Commission voted 4-1 Thursday to allow MGM to serve alcohol on the floor of the Springfield until 4 a.m.—two hours later than closing time for all bars in the state.
The alcohol license approved for the casino came with some conditions attached. As proposed by Commissioner Bruce Stebbins said there will be a review 90 days after the casino opens on August 24th and the commission’s executive director can suspend any part of the license if there is a problem.
"This is still something new and we want to be cautious and thoughtful about how we enact it," said Stebbins.
Commissioner Eileen O’Brien said she objected on public safety grounds to MGM being able to serve alcohol past 2 a.m.
The Massachusetts Restaurant Industry had complained the extended hours will give MGM an unfair competitive advantage.
