Some of the largest gaming companies in the world are banking their futures on Mississippi now that on-shore gaming has been legalized in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

All 13 Gulf Coast casinos were destroyed by the hurricane. In response, state lawmakers passed a bill to allow the casinos to build up to 800 feet inland. Gov. Haley Barbour (R) has said he will sign the bill.

Harrah's Entertainment Inc. and MGM Mirage are already making big plans. Larry Gregory, the executive director of the Mississippi Gaming Commission, says the coast could rival Atlantic City.

The effort could affect the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, a wealthy tribe that hired lobbyists to oppose the expansion of gaming in other states. The tribe operates a successful gaming enterprise.

Get the Story:
Casino Companies Plan to Rebuild in Miss. (AP 10/17)
pwpwd