As Massachusetts lawmakers prepare to debate Governor Deval Patrick's plan to bring casino gambling to the state, a new Western New England College Polling Institute survey finds residents divided on the issue. The poll found 42 percent opposed to the Governor's plan for three casino resorts, 41 percent in favor of the plan, and 17 percent neutral.

"While the poll found virtually the same number of supporters as opponents, there are subtle differences when it comes to how strongly people feel about the issue," says Denine Northrup, Director of the Western New England College Polling Institute. "Opponents were much more emphatic in their stance on casinos with 26% of respondents indicating they were ‘strongly' opposed, compared to 17 percent who where ‘strongly' in favor." 16 percent were "somewhat" opposed, while 24 percent were "somewhat" in favor.

While Massachusetts residents are divided about whether to allow casino gambling in the state, an overwhelming majority say they don't want a casino as their neighbor. When asked "Are you in favor of a casino in your town?", 57 percent responded they were strongly opposed. Ten percent were somewhat opposed, 11 percent neutral, 12 percent somewhat in favor, and ten percent strongly in favor. Opposition softened somewhat when people were asked "Are you in favor of a casino in your county?", with 38 percent strongly opposed, 11 percent somewhat opposed, 15 percent neutral, 21 percent somewhat in favor, and 16 percent strongly in favor. (Numbers may add up to more than 100 percent due to rounding).

The survey also inquired about Massachusetts residents experience with casinos and the likelihood of visiting a casino if it were built in Massachusetts. Thirty five percent of those polled reported having visited a casino within the past year. Fifty two percent indicated they would go to a casino in Massachusetts if one were available.

The Western New England College Polling Institute surveyed 446 adults drawn from across Massachusetts using random digit dialing between January 20 and 26. The margin of error is five percent. Complete results of the poll are available by clicking here.

Established in 2005, the Western New England College Polling Institute conducts research on issues of importance to Massachusetts residents and communities. The Institute provides the College's faculty and students with valuable opportunities to participate in public opinion-based research.