In Natchez, Mississippi, Magnolia Bluffs Casino’s donation of ,000 to Ernest “Tony” Fields’ mayoral campaign raised some eyebrows, since Mississippi Code 97-13-15 limits donations from a corporation, incorporated companies and incorporated associations to ,000 to any political party or candidate in a calendar year. Corporations that violate the donations limit could be fined up to ,000 if convicted.
But casino attorney Tommy Shepherd explained the statute does not apply to Magnolia Bluff’s donation because the casino’s official name under the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office is Natchez Casino Opco LLC. He said LLC stands for limited liability company, which is a business entity that’s separate from a corporation. Shepherd said, “They’re formed under different statutes. The statute with a limit on the donations is specific. It’s limited solely to corporations.”
Fields stated he is making sure donations to his campaign are legal. “I don’t have rich uncles and cousins to finance my campaign,” he said.
Magnolia Bluffs Casino also donated $1,000 to incumbent Ward 6 Alderman Dan Dillard.
