PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - Two competing gambling companies in Rhode Island have spent more than half a million dollars in lobbying efforts this year as they compete over a potential contract extension.
WPRI reports International Game Technology and Twin River Worldwide Holdings have paid more than 24 lobbyists $512,500 fighting over the proposed 20-year contract extension between the state and IGT.
John Marion, the executive director of Common Cause Rhode Island, a government watchdog group, says the two gambling companies may be involved in one of the largest lobbying efforts in the state in recent memory.
Data reported to the secretary of state’s office found the two companies have also spent money on lobbyists, political contributions, advertising and public relations.
Legislators held the first of several hearings to discuss the $1 billion proposal Thursday.
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