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State Eases Rule on Display of Licenses

BILOXI, Mississippi -- The Mississippi Gaming Commission will no longer require casino employees to wear gaming licenses that contain their full names.

Larry Gregory, executive director of the Gaming Commission, issued an industry letter on Wednesday, a day after Cathy Netto, a blackjack dealer at Grand Casino Gulfport, presented a petition signed by more than 250 co-workers asking that employees no longer display their badges.

Netto told The Sun Herald newspaper that she started seeking signatures after a gambler called her at home on Dec. 31. She believes the gambler got her full name from the badge and called directory assistance.

Gregory's letter said licensed casino employees, which include dealers, bartenders, technicians and cocktail waitresses, won't have to wear their license as long as they wear a name badge. The employees must have their gaming license in their possession while working.

Beverly Martin, executive director of the Gulf Coast Gaming Association said she was pleased with the change.

"We know the employees are very grateful, just as we are," said Martin, noting that the association had received complaints about the policy.

Leonard "Len" Blackwell II, chairman of the Gaming Commission and a Gulfport attorney, said under his interpretation of the law, a gaming license was like a driver's license. "You're not required to wear your driver's license on your shirt," he said.

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