SEARCH NEWS:

 

Mississippi Casino Classes May Face Ax

GULFPORT, Mississippi – As reported by the South Mississippi Sun Herald: "Casino management classes may be omitted from a new tourism degree this fall at the University of Southern Mississippi because of an attorney general's opinion.

"The opinion last week from Attorney General Jim Hood interprets state law to 'clearly prohibit' the state College Board from training gambling employees. The opinion also said state law prohibits the teaching of gambling classes on publicly owned property. The opinion was sought by Sen. Alan Nunnelee, R-Tupelo, who wanted to clarify whether the board has the authority to sidestep the Legislature in offering classes related to the casino industry.

"The board in April approved a bachelor's degree in tourism with courses to be taught at the University of Southern Mississippi.

"…In November 2003, a representative from the Attorney General's Office assigned to the board told members the degree could be offered. The state College Board said that despite a state statute prohibiting gambling courses from being taught on public property, it believed it had the power to determine what subjects are taught at state schools.

"The College Board is expected to discuss the AG's opinion with USM President Shelby Thames when it meets later this week in Jackson…"

< Gaming News