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Rota casino bill introduced

ROTA, Northern Mariana Islands –As reported by the Saipan Tribune: "This time, Rota's leaders are taking the faster route of simple legislation, rather than putting the proposal to a vote.

"On Thursday, Rep. Crispin M. Ogo introduced House Bill 15-219 to establish casino gambling in the First Senatorial District. The measure will require only the Legislature's affirmative action and the governor's signature.

"This is seen as the easier way to get the proposal enacted, compared with the referendum process. The last push for a Rota casino industry was done through an initiative. The initiative was placed on the Rota ballot in the 2003 midterm election. While the proposal saw an increased popularity over prior elections, the 'yes' votes were not enough to ratify the initiative.

"Ogo said the Rota leadership, which includes the legislative delegation and the municipal government, has decided to take its chances in the Legislature before putting the casino proposal before the voters.

"…H.B. 15-219 would create a Rota Casino Gaming Commission made up of five members appointed by the Rota mayor with the consent of the Rota Municipal Council…"

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