Now that the new Liberal government is reshaping the Canadian senate, Windsor West MP Brian Masse hopes his single-game sports betting bill gets a fighting chance. He was chosen seventh by random draw to table a piece of legislation in the House of Commons. "We had the bill in the senate during the scandals, so we're hopeful that the senate is actually going to be more cooperative with the House of Commons this upcoming session," he says. "I think Canadians expect that." It isn't clear when the bill will be dealt with, but Masse says it should be quicker than last time. "This is starting much sooner and it's high on the order paper," Masse says. "We'll be able to get to the debate rather quickly with this and there are some members who are coming back, who are familiar and supportive of this." He says the bill will give provinces the option to legalize single-game sports betting. It benefits tourism, creates jobs and takes money away from organized crime, Masse adds. The sports betting bill died in the senate when the last federal election was called.
Windsor-Tecumseh NDP candidate, Cheryl Hardcastle, left, Windsor West NDP Brian Masse and Essex NDP Tracey Ramsey, right, speak in favour of single-game sports betting, October 9, 2015. (Photo by Jason Viau)
