Mississippi raises casino taxes to 16% amid ongoing debate
Mississippi’s casino industry is facing a historic time as the casino tax hike decision comes right in the middle of a heated debate over online gambling and sports betting.
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Mississippi House approves mobile sports betting: Senate next
The Mississippi House of Representatives has taken a major step toward mobile sports betting legalization but the final decision now rests with the state Senate.
While sports betting has been legal in Mississippi casinos since 2018, online wagering is still prohibited. According to supporters, legalizing online sports betting has the potential to bring more than $50 million a year in state revenue and combat illegal gambling.
House Gaming Chairman Casey Eure (R-Saucier) emphasized the benefits of the law:
“The program could generate more than $50 million in state revenues and help curb illegal online betting in the state.”
But not everyone is supporting the idea. Some casino operators fear that mobile betting could take business away from land-based casinos, potentially leading to job losses.
A group of eight casino operators voiced stated strong opposition:
“A statewide expansion of gaming, with no local referendums, putting a casino in the hands of every person in Mississippi, no matter where they are located (homes, schools, churches) … This is not the right vision for gaming in Mississippi.”
If passed, the bill would allow Mississippi casinos to have up to two mobile betting platforms, though tax details are still undecided. The Senate now has to decide whether to approve, reject, or negotiate changes before the deadline set on March 21. With the legislative session ending on April 6, time is running out, leaving online sports betting’s future uncertain.
Mississippi debates online sports betting legalization
Mississippi is expected to have a debate on legalizing online sports betting after House Bill 774's failure to go forward in 2024.House Bill 774, which aimed to expand...
