Patrick OKs Bill To Study Mass. 2024 Olympics Bid
BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick has signed into law a bill intended to study the feasibility of the state hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics.
The bill, sponsored by state Sen. Eileen Donoghue, would create a nine-member commission to analyze all aspects of hosting the games, including infrastructure, transportation, security, lodging, locations, costs and job creation.
The bill also calls on the commission to consult with other New England states and to seek input from local governments and organizations before making its final recommendations.
The Lowell Democrat has said hosting the Olympics isn't without its risks but could create what she called a "much-needed long-term investment in infrastructure, improved revenue sources, and the addition of thousands of jobs."
She said the sporting competition could also create "an amplified international profile that will keep people visiting and investing" in the region even after the games are over.
The Senate and House both approved the bill before sending it to Patrick, who signed it Thursday.
The bill calls on the commission to complete its report by March 2014.
The legislation also calls on the committee to submit draft versions of legislation that would be needed to carry out those recommendations by the same deadline.
The U.S. Olympic Committee hopes to have a short list of potential host cities by the end of this year and will decide which city to recommend in 2014.
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