State House attempts to push through legislation before winter recess begins

The Massachusetts Legislature moved multiple bills to Gov. Deval Patrick’s desk on Tuesday, the second to last day before the chamber goes on a seven-week recess.

The sent bills include those that would legalize gambling, change the state pensions system and outlaw human trafficking.

If Patrick signs the casino bill, Massachusetts will see the legalization of three resort-style casinos and one slot parlor.

Proponents said legalizing casinos will bring more tax revenue and jobs to the Commonwealth, but opponents said it would increase gambling addiction and tarnish the character of Massachusetts.

Rep. Ruth Balser, of Newton, said on the House floor that she was not in favor of legalizing casinos.

“We know that there will be an increase in the number of people who suffer from addiction as a result of this action that we take today,” Balser said.

If Patrick signs the legislation changing the state pension system, the minimum retirement age for state employees will increase to 60 from 55, saving the state $5 billion over the next 30 years, the bill’s proponents said.

The bill would also institute a minimum pension of $15,000 for workers that the state has employed for at least 25 years.

“This is a responsible bill to the Massachusetts taxpayers and to public employees,” said Sen. Katherine Clark, of Melrose. “I think it is living up to our responsibility to those public employee who patrol our streets, educate our kids and run our libraries.”

If Patrick signs the anti-human trafficking bill into law, Massachusetts will become the 47th state to pass an anti-trafficking law.

“This is a situation of human atrocity that’s occurring, and it’s been occurring unchecked for far too long,” Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr said on the Senate floor.

The House passed new redistricting maps, but Sen. Brian Joyce, of Milton, used an administrative tactic to delay the Senate’s vote on redistricting until Wednesday.