Casino deal reached in Mass.

BOSTON (WPRI) - Legislative leaders have reached an agreement that would expand casino gambling in Massachusetts.

The deal would authorize three resort casinos and would allow the state's four racetracks to compete for two slot parlor licenses.

The bill initially approved by the House called for two casinos and 750 slot machines at each of the four racetracks, while the Senate bill called for three casinos and no slot parlors.

Lawmakers in both houses must approve the bill before formal sessions end at midnight Saturday.

Then, the deal must pass muster with Gov. Deval Patrick. On Thursday, he said he would accept the creation of one slot parlor — if lawmakers passed several bills currently stalled. Those bills include legislation that would limit health insurance costs for small businesses and a bill to overhaul the state's criminal records law.

A spokesman for House Speaker Robert DeLeo said lawmakers are working hard on the bills.

Patrick reiterated Friday he would only accept one slot parlor and that other venues would have to be considered, not just racetracks. In addition, he has previously questioned the economic benefit of the parlors.

One of the potential locations for a casino is Fall River. Mayor William Flanagan called the deal — a tentative deal at the time — "uplifting news."

"I'm proud that our legislative delegation was able to carry the ball and get this bill drafted."

If Patrick signs the bill and the Fall River plan is approved, the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe would work with the city to build the casino on 300 acres of land along Route 24.

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The Associated Press and Eyewitness News reporter Stephen Schuler contributed to this report.