Failure to pass Tidelands Bill

JACKSON, Miss. (WXXV)- The Mississippi Legislature failed to pass a Tidelands Bill this year.

All 12 existing casinos have a tidelands lease with the state of Mississippi. Operators fear proposed and newly approved casino sites won’t have to play by the same rules.

Secretary of State Michael Watson, who oversees the leases, told WXXV the casino industry needs certainty and all properties, new and old, should be on a level playing field.

The Tidelands Bill failed this year because legislative leaders added online gaming to the bill.