Harrah’s New Orleans Hotel & Casino recently became the first resort in the U.S. to require guests to show proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test to be allowed to enter.
The rule is part of a comprehensive mandate issued by Mayor LaToya Cantrell, which covers Harrah’s New Orleans Hotel & Casino and the racino Fairgrounds Racecourse & Slots, plus bars, restaurants, gyms, concerts and the newly rebranded Caesars Superdome.
Former state Senator Ronnie Johns, the new chairman of Louisiana Gaming Control Board, said, “It’s a lot of logistics to implement this. Harrah’s and the racetrack know they have to comply, and they’re going to comply. I know the industry wants to work with the mayor and to be compliant and safe.”
Johns added, “We’re just trying to get a handle on how the gaming industry is going to be able to work through this with their employees and patrons alike. Our concern is the proximity of New Orleans to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Those customers who do not want to go through that protocol will have the option to drive over to the Mississippi market which does not have these mandates at this time. We have no doubt that this will have a negative impact on the gaming industry.”
Johns said the gaming board has been encouraging and recommending vaccinations for casino employees and patrons. “Our numbers are just going through the roof right now. We’re going in the wrong direction. I know the mayor is trying to protect the city and people’s well-being and their health.”
Johns noted the nearby casinos outside the city limits, Treasure Chest Casino Kenner and Boomtown New Orleans, are smaller venues and are not destination resorts like Harrah’s New Orleans, he said. However, he said the vaccine mandate will affect casinos as well as other non-gaming businesses. “New Orleans is a hospitality city for restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, hotels and a huge convention city. The implications of this for the entire business community are going to be significant.”
Brendan Bussmann, a director of public affairs for Global Market Advisors, said it’s too soon to tell whether or not other states and cities with casinos will require a vaccine or negative test to enter. “What we’ve said from the beginning is this is all unprecedented. It’s very day-to-day, whether that’s mask mandates, a potential third shot or other requirements like hospitality outlets requiring vaccines for employees. There’s a lot on the table and a lot of moving parts on how it’s all going to shake out.”
