In south Mississippi, the Gaming Commission announced casinos there are allowed to open on May 21, just before the Memorial Day Weekend, starting operations at 8 a.m. Governor Tate Reeves confirmed the shutdown order came from the Mississippi Gaming Commission, not the government, but he was still involved in the discussion.
In turn, casino operators expressed hope the official announcement would come soon since they have to recall staff and make suitable preparations. General manager at Golden Nugget Casino Chett Harrison said, “Give us the word and give us three to four days and we’ll be ready.”
Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort is reportedly building a special venue area, which should be ready soon after the casino reopens. The operators are anticipating to have additional safety regulations, and await the re-opening order.
In Ohio, Governor Jon Husted stated that that horse racing might begin by May 22 after being shut down at the end of March. The re-newed events will be held without spectators and Ohio State Racing Commission announced additional safety rules. But there’s still no date for the re-opening of the state’s 11 casinos.
Kansas, on the other hand, is faring slightly worse. Gaming revenue in state-owned casinos for April fell to zero. Kansas Lottery Commission confirmed the state is working on a plan to re-open. This year’s gaming revenue during dropped by 13%. However, despite the losses, the state’s lockdown is set to continue, as Kansas remains susceptible to COVID-19.
