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Mississippi Casinos Discussed in Special Session

MISSISSIPPI – As reported by the Clarion Ledger: "In a special session today, Gov. Haley Barbour is asking state lawmakers to place casinos on land, but within sight of the water, almost a month after Hurricane Katrina ripped the tourist sites from their perches.

"His proposal places casinos within 1,500 feet of the water and owners must have the casino, a hotel or other facility on the beach.

"…He outlined almost 30 items to be debated in the special session starting at 11 a.m.

"The governor is seeking to borrow $500 million for local governments and $25 million for a small-business bridge loan program, excluding hard-hit school districts from accountability ratings for the year and a one-year waiver of out-of-state tuition for Katrina evacuees.

"…The Mississippi Tax Commission estimates the state could see revenue losses of $213 million to $272 million between September and December. State economists have told lawmakers the budget may stay on target with the rebuilding efforts.

"…The Mississippi Economic Council, the state's chamber of commerce, supports casinos on dry land but close to the shoreline…"

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