Opinions are decidedly mixed over whether Massachusetts should allow casino gambling. But a new program put forward by the Massachusetts Lottery Commission could turn every pharmacy and convenience store into a gaming outlet.
It’s called “Keno-to-go” and would greatly expand the number of locations at which one can buy Keno tickets. These outlets had been resricted to “pouring establishments” where players would purchase their tickets and have a drink and/or something to eat while waiting for their numbers to show up on TV screens placed about the premises.
Under the new scheme, you’ll be able to buy your tickets at the local variety store, then go home and view the results online.
This expansion of the Lottery’s reach must be approved by local licensing authorities, however, and it will be interesting to see whether these applications engender any controversy. The town of Norwell has been among the handful to give Keno-to-go its blessing since the program was introduced about a week ago.
Interestingly, when asked whether this might be the first step towards state-sponsored online gambling, state Treasurer Tim Cahill didn’t exactly rule it out during a meeting with editors this week.
“Only if government allows it,” he said.
