September 19, 2011 (BOSTON) The state Senate is preparing to debate its own version of a gambling bill that would license three casinos and slots parlors in the state.           

Senate lawmakers have until Wednesday to file amendments to the bill that broadly mirrors the gaming bill passed last week by the Massachusetts house by a 123-32 vote.             They are scheduled to debate the legislation on Sept. 26th.           

The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe wants to build a casino resort in southeastern Massachusetts.           

More than 150 amendments were filed to the house bill, but few were adopted.           

Opponents of expanded gaming have said the Senate is their best bet to stop or weaken the bill.