While the Gaming Law signed by Governor Patrick already outlines steps the Gaming Commission can take to thoroughly vet all applicants for employment, recent media reports have called into question the Commission's application and integrity relative to those hiring procedures.
“The original Gaming Law outlined a reasonable and appropriate vetting procedure, but apparently that wasn't enough. It is unfortunate that the House of Representatives now has to legislate common sense,” said House Minority Leader Brad Jones. “The Commission's track record calls their judgment into question. By offering this amendment, we will require the Commission to conduct thorough vetting of applicants, and to maintain a level of integrity that is expected from the taxpayers of Massachusetts.”
In addition to requiring background checks, which are standard in many application processes, this amendment will require that the Commission, shall at all times, strive to avoid impropriety and the appearance of impropriety in all matters under their jurisdiction and shall require all staff and personnel subject to their direction and control to observe the same standards of fidelity and diligence.
The amendment will be sent as part of the comprehensive Supplemental Budget to the Senate for consideration.
