Casino Profits Could Benefit Dedham Schools

Dedham Public Schools could have a seat at the blackjack table in the state's casino plans. 

An amendment to the gaming bill supported by state Sen. Michael Rush (D-West Roxbury) would provide more than $800,000 in Chapter 70 funds to Dedham schools, which would be paid from the revenue the state would pull in from casinos.

Rush's office announced Monday that the Senate adopted the amendment, but that it stills needs approval from House members and agreed to by Gov. Deval Patrick.

"Not everyone favors the legalization of casino gaming in the Commonwealth, but most would agree that putting money in our education system benefits everyone," Rush's Chief of Staff John Regan said in a statement.

The $801,919 would bring the school district closer to full funding, according to Rush's office. Currently, Dedham schools receive $3,651,265 from the state.

"It would make it fully funded by the state as it relates to the current funding formula," said John Regan, Rush's chief of staff.

It could be a bit before Dedham sees the influx of cash, however. The extra money wouldn't come until casinos begin producing revenue, Rush's office stated.

"Which at first will come from licensing fees and then, once the casinos are operational, from gaming itself," according to the statement.