August was the best month for Mississippi Gulf Coast casinos. According to Jay McDaniel. Mississippi Gaming Commission Executive Director, the stated casinos generated over $200 million last month.
McDaniel notes how casinos resorts have pulled impressive figures even after being closed for two days during Hurricane Ida. The Gulf Coast casinos generated $124 million, the best August in history.
Mississippi is home to 26 commercial casinos, 12 on the Gulf Coast and eight in Biloxi.
McDaniel is replacing Allen Godfrey, who retired last month. He earlier served as the gaming commission for ten years as deputy director. He also has experience working in legal practices.
Mississippi Casinos Revenue Pace
According to McDaniel, Mississippi casinos usually takes in about $1.2 billion in a year. In 2019, it was generally a good year, and casinos made $2.4 billion. In 2020, casinos revenue in the state greatly reduced to $1.8 billion due to COVID-19 concerns.
Sports Betting in Mississippi
Sports betting is legal in Mississippi, however, sportsbooks are only permitted inside casinos. Mobile devices like smartphones are off-limits. McDaniel, however, noted that mobile betting can still be legalized if the Legislature decides to do so.
In neighboring states like Louisiana, Arkansas, and Tennessee, sports betting is popping around. Arkansas has legalized sports betting inside casinos. In Tennessee, mobile sports betting is legal. Louisiana has also legalized sports betting in the majority of the parishes.
