July 17, 2012 (MASHPEE) _ A deal for a new casino in Taunton is moving forward following a public hearing before the Joint Committee on Economic Development yesterday. 

The panel heard 2 1/2 hours of testimony on the Mashpee Wampanoag’s $500 million casino plan.

Following the favorable recommendation by the committee, the deal now heads to the House and Senate for consideration and debate. 

The state must approve the arrangement by July 31.

If that deal isn’t reached -- the gaming commission can seek bids for a casino for southeastern Massachusetts.