Former Massachusetts congressman William Delahunt has been hired by the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe as they continue to push for the right to build a casino in Southeastern Massachusetts. As the Boston Globe pointed out, Delahunt will be putting nearly 40 years of experience in Massachusetts politics behind the Tribe’s efforts just two months removed from his time in Congress.

I quickly criticized the move, and called on the state to investigate any improprieties associated with Delahunt’s quick turnaround from congressman to lobbyist. Federal government ethics rules prohibit former legislators and government employees from lobbying Congress for one year after leaving office.  However, the federal limits do not appear to apply to Delahunt lobbying on Beacon Hill.

MFI will continue to watch the situation as it unfolds. The Legislature has not been quick to bring up the subject of increased predatory gambling, but House Speaker Robert DeLeo has expressed his hope that a bill will be approved this year to bring both casino gambling and slot machines at racetracks to the Bay State.

    Source: Boston Globe