Georgia lawmakers offering a bargain to casino operators?
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.
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.
