The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) spent more than five hours in executive session on Feb. 20 in private discussions about the legal approach to ending the case in Nevada brought by Steve Wynn – a case that has barred the MGC from publicly sharing its long-awaited suitability investigation.
The MGC convened its meeting at 11 a.m. on Feb. 20, and promptly went into executive session by a unanimous vote, with Chair Cathy Judd-Stein indicating that public discussion would be detrimental to their legal standing.
At 4:30 p.m., they emerged with another quick public action.
Member Gayle Cameron read a motion that asked the Commissioners to authorize an agreement that would result in a dismissal of the Wynn case against them.
The motion indicated it would allow the MGC to move forward with “an adjudicatory proceeding regarding Wynn Resorts’ suitability as soon as possible.”
The motion was approved 5-0.
Afterward, the MGC issued a statement indicating that the actions taken would avoid a long, protracted legal fight.
“Today (Feb. 20), the Massachusetts Gaming Commission voted to authorize its legal counsel to finalize an agreement guaranteeing that commissioners have access to important investigative information relevant to the Wynn Resorts suitability review,” said Spokesperson Elaine Driscoll. “This action also eliminates the uncertainty of protracted litigation and allows the MGC to commence its preparations for an adjudicatory hearing and a robust, public review of its investigatory findings.”
MGC Spokesperson Elaine Driscoll said Tuesday morning they do not yet have any dates or timelines for that rollout. However, she said they would likely discuss that matter at the MGC’s Feb. 28 meeting.