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Mayor Seeks Advocate to Protect Casino Revenue

BILOXI, Miss. -- Biloxi Mayor A.J. Holloway is asking the City Council to finance an advocate to track any sign of legislation that would decrease the city's share of casino taxes to help close state budget deficits.

The state receives 8 percent of gross casino revenue, while local governments in gambling counties receive 4 percent. State lawmakers may try to shift part of the share that goes to local governments to the state treasury during the next regular legislative session.

"I've added some money in my budget for the mayor's office and asked the council to consider hiring somebody, some firm or someone that would keep their ear to the ground -- not necessarily a lobbyist -- to let us know if a change in the casino tax is being considered and what is being talked about," Holloway said.

If a bill is introduced, Holloway wants someone in Jackson to coordinate a quick response.

Copyright © Las Vegas Sun. Inc. Republished with permission.

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