Windsor West MP Brian Masse renews calls for federal Senate to pass Bill C-290 in second session.
Masse questioned why the Senate continues to delay the passage of Bill C-290 after pressuring the senators to pass the bill since the last session of Parliament. “There should be no controversy on passing Bill C-290, as it went through the House of Commons without a single dissenting voice”
The official opposition MP went on to highlight the well rounded support for the Bill.
“Bill C-290 has significant support from political parties, provincial governments, gaming associations, the Canadian Labour Congress and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce itself," says Masse. "It would also protect billions of dollars in tourism infrastructure and 250 jobs in the gaming sector that are under attack by increased U.S. competition and a higher dollar.”
Masse believes, if passed, single sports betting will attract more tourists from across the border to gaming establishments like Caesars Windsor.
However, some senators feel that the practice could potentially lead to the outcome of professional games being fixed.
Still, the issue remains a priority of Masse who feels bill will help fight organized crime. “Once passed, it would be a serious hit on organized crime and the nefarious offshore betting cabals that rack in billions of dollars each year. In fact, provincial revenue would increase, allowing support for education and health care for example.”
Masse admitted that with prorogation, Bill C-290 will return to initial stages in the Senate, having to go through the process for Senate approval all over again.
