GAMING INDUSTRY DELAY- A big part of Louisiana’s economy includes the gaming industry, as there are 20 casinos and 199 truck stop video facilities that generate $700 million in annual state taxes. The gaming business also employs a lot of people both directly and indirectly so there’s a lot at stake at having these businesses reopen even if partially as outlined in Governor John Bel Edwards Phase One Coronavirus guidelines.
Casinos and other gaming operations are allowed to reopen Friday but according to the Louisiana Gaming Control Board, operators have opted to reopen Monday because of confusion about the new coronavirus guidelines as they have to adhere to such things as allowing no more than 25% customer capacity and that means just 25% gaming positions open too. According to the Monroe News Star-- the delay in reopening will allow the State Police and Gaming Control Board to review and approve the new rules and regulations. But even if all goes as planned, some smaller operators may choose to remain closed as they may actually lose more money trying to meet the new guidelines with fewer customers.
