After the recent approval of a controversial project, Mississippi's coastal casino scene is once again in the eyes of lawmakers. RW Development, which plans to build casinos on US 90 and Veteran's Avenue in Biloxi, Mississippi, has been working for several years to win approval from the Mississippi Gaming Commission, the state's gambling regulator.

After three successful attempts, the RW development won site approval from the December committee. This was achieved after the company was allowed to build a pier at the end of Peters Avenue. This strategic move allowed the company to secure site approval from gambling regulators. However, the controversial approval caught the attention of lawmakers in states who introduced new legislation to address inconsistencies and concerns in case other casino operators were interested in securing a site near the waterfront.

As Sun Herald announced, the state's legislators are currently reviewing legislation that seeks to clarify and change various provisions, ensuring that clear rules are established for casinos interested in investing in the state's mudflats. Ultimately, the proposal seeks to outline a specific framework for gambling regulators in cases similar to recently approved licenses for RW Developments.

The proposal repeats now established rules for casino projects in state mudflats that require at least 40,000 square feet of casino gaming space, along with restaurants and at least 300 hotel rooms. In addition, under Mississippi's existing law, these casino projects should also boost the local economy and tourism.

Consistent regulations to protect the environment and encourage investment

Under the proposal SB 2780, Mississippi lawmakers want to draw a clear line when it comes to the state's authority over Public Trust Tidelands. The proposal seeks to mandate that casino licensees who are interested in intertidal projects secure intertidal leases through the secretary of state. These licenses can also be subject to annual rent that can be paid. The bill also seeks to clarify rules for cases involving Tidelands casino licenses that do not require annual rent.

The proposed legislation is sponsored by Senator David Blunt, chairman of the Senate Gaming Committee. "I am working with the Secretary of State's office and all coastal casino operators on this bill," Blunt explained in a recent interview with The Sun-Herald. In addition, Blunt pointed out, "More than ever, we need to restore a consistent regulatory environment to preserve sand beaches and encourage further investment and improvement in the coastal casino market."