Pearl River Resorts, owned by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, is among a group of Mississippi casino operators urging lawmakers not to expand online gambling in the state.
In a letter sent to state leadership earlier this month, Pearl River Resorts joined a coalition of casino operators opposing the legalization of online sports betting and online casino-style gaming, often referred to as iGaming.
The group argues that allowing online gambling statewide could negatively impact brick-and-mortar casinos, including those that support jobs and economic development in local communities. The letter warns that expanded online gambling could reduce in-person casino visits, which could lead to job losses in hospitality, entertainment, and related industries.
The coalition also raised concerns that much of the revenue generated by online gambling would flow to out-of-state operators, leaving limited economic benefit for Mississippi. According to the group, projected tax revenue from online gambling would be about $11 million annually.
The position taken by Pearl River Resorts aligns with recent statewide polling commissioned by the National Association Against iGaming. The January survey found that nearly 74% of Mississippi voters oppose legalizing mobile sports betting once they learn it would allow wagers statewide on smartphones and other devices.
Opposition to online casino gaming was even higher, with more than 80% of voters saying they were against legalization after learning it would allow 24/7 access to casino-style games.
The poll found majority opposition across all congressional districts and major demographic groups in Mississippi.
“This data proves that online gambling is a product Mississippi simply does not want,” said Oliver Barie, Government Relations Director for the National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG). “When residents envision what this policy means in practice—the ‘casino in your pocket’ at all hours—they move decisively away from legalization.”
Pearl River Resorts and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians operate major gaming and hospitality properties in east-central Mississippi and are key economic drivers in the region. Lawmakers are expected to continue discussions on online gambling during the current legislative session.
The letter opposing online gambling expansion was signed by representatives from:
- Churchill Downs (Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa, River Walk Casino Hotel)
- Foundation Gaming & Entertainment (Fitz Casino Hotel, WaterView Casino Hotel)
- Full House Resorts (Silver Slipper Casino Hotel)
- Gulfside Casino Partnership (Island View Casino Resort)
- Palace Casino Resort
- Pearl River Resort (Golden Moon Hotel and Casino)
- Saratoga Gaming (Magnolia Bluffs Casino Hotel)
- Treasure Bay Casino and Hotel
