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Georgia lawmakers offering a bargain to casino operators?

Some Georgia legislators are pushing to allow casinos in the state. They propose two large “destination resorts” that would include more than just gaming. Shown here is the Golden Nugget casino in Atlantic City, N.J. (AP Photo/Wayne Parry)
Some Georgia legislators are pushing to allow casinos in the state. They propose two large “destination resorts” that would include more than just gaming. Shown here is the Golden Nugget casino in Atlantic City, N.J. (AP Photo/Wayne Parry)
By Matt Kempner
Feb 3, 2017

Legislation to make casinos legal in Georgia would tax gambling receipts at a rate well below the national average, a review of industry data shows.

Supporters' central argument for opening Georgia to two casino complexes is that they would generate lots of money for education, specifically the HOPE program and need-based scholarships.

But figures from the American Gaming Association show the 20 percent tax rate proposed for casinos’ gaming revenues in Georgia would fall far under the nearly 30 percent national average. At least three states that recently added casinos have set rates above 40 percent.

State Sen. Brandon Beach, R-Alpharetta, who sponsored one casino bill, said he wants to make sure operators keep enough money to regularly renovate their property. He also predicts that Georgians will gamble no more than they can afford.

Really? Find out why casino companies are particularly hot to enter Atlanta and what spot they apparently are considering for a "destination resort," in my latest Unofficial Business column on MyAJC.com.

About the Author

Matt Kempner is an award-winning journalist who seeks out intriguing twists about people and subjects beyond what the AJC might typically cover. A former columnist and editor, his past assignments have included business investigations, energy, the economy, entrepreneurs, big business, consumer spending, politics, government and the environment.

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