Gov. Nathan Deal is still staunchly opposed to the expansion of gambling in Georgia. But he cracked the door open to another route that could pave the way for the first casinos in Atlanta.
In an interview Monday, he hinted that he may not veto legislation needed to operate the casinos if a convincing majority of Georgia voters back the expansion in a 2016 ballot referendum. He probably won't sign it either, he said, but his John Hancock may not be needed after all.
Let us explain: Supporter of casino-style gambling, including MGM's pitch for a $1 billion resort and a group of rivals scouting Turner Field, are pushing a constitutional amendment next year that would allow cities and counties to decide whether to host casinos.
The money would be funneled to the HOPE scholarship program and other education initiatives. That constitutional amendment would require a two-thirds vote in both legislative chambers and support from a majority of voters on the ballot - but not Deal's signature.
The governor would, however, have to OK the "enabling legislation" that forms the guts of how the casinos would be regulated in Georgia before the first slot machines can light up. Deal's top aide has suggested that such a move won't happen on the governor's watch, and Deal said Monday he remained opposed to casino gambling because "it doesn't offer benefits that outweigh the negatives."
But there's a caveat. Deal was asked, hypothetically, if he would face more pressure to sign the legislation if a constitutional amendment were to receive popular support.
"Once you have the vote of the people, and it expresses the will of the people of the state, it certainly puts any implementing legislation in a different light," said Deal.
Faced with the decision of holding his nose and signing legislation he opposes or vetoing a measure that gained widespread support, Deal signaled he was eying a third option - one that has gone largely unused in recent Georgia history.
The governor has 40 days to sign or veto a bill after the legislative session is gaveled to an end. But if he chooses to take no action on a proposal during that window, it automatically becomes law after the 40 days are up.
Hence Deal's response when asked what would happen if voters resoundingly support casino-style gambling.
"I don't have to sign anything for it to become law," he said.
You can read more about the behind-the-scenes maneuvering already underway for the casino project by clicking here.
About the Author
