SHARON HARRIS Homeless people often stay away, which impacts


employment. Statistics show that about 20 per cent who left New Orleans in 2005 never returned. Ironically, many relocated to Houston and are now without housing once again.


Reconstruction often takes years. Louisiana and Mississippi certainly understand those challenges, even when assisted by great corporations like MGM, Boyd Gaming and others along the Gulf Coast.


I visited the Biloxi/Gulfport, Mississippi region in August 2011 to evaluate their recovery from Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Yes, hundreds of millions had done amazing work in rebuilding their infrastructure, but signs of destruction remained.


Within Texas, Louisiana and Florida, I hope casino


operators representing commercial, tribal and cruise ship categories take charge and care for the same neighbors and customers whose hard-earned dollars have supported them. The national associations like the AGA and the AMOA/AAMA – for amusement operators – have already stepped up.


Good for them. We must care for our own. As you read this column at G2E, which begins on


Monday, October 2, the timing has real significance because 2018 could really impact gaming. The first Monday in October is traditionally when the US Supreme Court reconvenes after its summer recess.


After years of failed court battles, the Court will


hear arguments for legalizing sports betting beyond Nevada, Delaware, Montana and Oregon. A growing list of sports organizations also recognize the critical need for regulated, honest gaming.


The AGA has filed an Amicus Curiae, or “friend of the court“ brief, defined as a “person with a strong interest…on the subject matter of an action…” Although not a party to the case, these may be filed by private persons concerning matters with a broad public interest. It complements the lawsuit filed by outgoing New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, and others, against multiple sports associations fighting against legalized sports betting.


Tying this together, my feature in this issue


describes how the industry fights corruption, theft and money laundering. The impressive professionals I interviewed clearly know their stuff.


See page 30 for Sharon’s article.


SEPTEMBER 2017 17

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