HARTFORD, Conn. — The Lamont Administration, Mashantucket Pequot, and Mohegan Tribal Nations agreed Monday night to shut down the casinos for two weeks in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The casinos will be March 17 at 8 p.m. to the public and remain close for two weeks.
“This is an important cooperative agreement between sovereign nations and the State of Connecticut,” Governor Lamont said. “We all share the same goal toward ensuring our residents are safe and keeping public health at the top of our minds during this public health emergency. I applaud the tribes for their collaboration and partnership.”
This is the first time both Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun casinos will be closed.
“This is a humbling reflection on the ongoing public health crisis and it is the right decision,” Butler said. “Our concern is for health and safety of the community and of the public. The coronavirus is a threat to each and every one of us, and we believe shutting our doors will keep our visitors, employees and the public more safe.”
“Connecticut and our respective tribes have worked collaboratively for decades and this moment in our history is no different,” James Gessner, Chairman of the Mohegan Tribe, said. “This is a decision that was made to ensure all of our guests, team members, and our partners across Connecticut, especially in our local communities, remain safe. We are successful if the state is successful, and that’s true in all facets, like public health.”