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Louisiana Bill Would Expand Gambling on River5 April 2005BATON ROUGE, Louisiana – As reported by the Times-Picayune: "Legislation that would allow gambling aboard cruise ships that sail the Mississippi River from New Orleans to other locations in Louisiana or the United States has been filed by an East Jefferson lawmaker for debate at the April 25 legislative session. "Rep. Danny Martiny, R-Kenner, said House Bill 114 would also set up a special seven-member 'Domestic Cruise Ship Gaming Control Assistance District,' which would have the same boundaries as Orleans Parish and would be authorized to impose a "franchise fee" of up to 18.5 percent of net gambling proceeds, or $2,000 for each gambling position on the boat. "The bill says the fees would not have to be ratified at a public election. "…State law allows foreign-bound ships sailing out of the Port of New Orleans and those entering the port from foreign destinations to gamble in state waters, but domestic cruises cannot have gambling. "Martiny said his bill would require that gambling operations shut down when the ships dock. To qualify for the gambling devices, the cruise ship must have overnight accommodations for at least 400 guests, sail for at least 48 hours and be "a limited amenity" that would not compete with gambling in the parishes along the river…" |