MGM Resorts International has proposed a billion gambling complex in downtown Atlanta. MGM spokesman Clark Dumont said the company’s research regarding the proposal, which would include a luxury hotel, entertainment venue, gaming floor and other amenities, is in “the very preliminary stages. We have no active discussions on any sites. The legislative and voter deliberation and voting process, for which we have deep respect, need to occur first.” He noted the project would create 3,500 new jobs.
State Rep. Ron Stephens, chair of the House Economic Development Committee, stated, “I’ve seen what they want to do, and it’s going to blow your mind. It’s massive in its size and its elegance. This is a game-changer. I’m looking for a win-win-win and this is it.” He added the development would be the “Cadillac” of casinos with Las Vegas-style casino gambling rather than video slot machines, as suggested in the past.
Last March, Stephens filed legislation for a constitutional amendment to allow local votes on expanded gambling, legalizing up to six casinos and betting at horseraces. It would require a two-thirds vote from legislators but no signature from Governor Nathan Deal, although he would have to sign enabling legislation to set up the mechanisms for local votes on projects. Then voters would have to approve the amendment. Any casino project also would require approval by the state lottery board, appointed by Deal. The measure was introduced too late to be voted on during the 2015 session but will be on the agenda for the 2016 session convening in January.
Chris Riley, Deal’s top aide, said, “I doubt it will happen before January 10, 2019,” the date of the next governor’s inauguration. Deal has long opposed casino gambling, although he approved online lottery sales and signed legislation in 2013 allowing more coin-operated “grey machines” in gas stations. Otherwise, gambling is limited to the Georgia Lottery, which funds education, including the HOPE scholarship program. The insolvent program can no longer cover full in-state tuition to public colleges and technical colleges. Stephens said MGM Resorts’ hotel and casino possibly could generate $250 million annually for the scholarships.
Dumont said after Stephens’ measure was filed, a group approached MGM Resorts about a possible Atlanta casino near the Georgia World Congress Center. MGM Resorts has hired five lobbyists to advocate for the proposal.
Atlanta is one of the largest metro areas in the U.S. without Vegas-style gambling. The city also has the world’s busiest airport and one of the nation’s largest convention industries.
