Could a Las Vegas high roller be making its way to Atlanta? Maybe, but it'll be an uphill slog. With proposals in the State House to legalize casino gambling in Georgia, a secret party of unnamed power brokers have invited MGM Resorts International to pitch the idea of a $1B gambling complex somewhere downtown, adding 3,500 jobs to the area and tens of millions into the HOPE scholarship. Where it will go remains to be seen, but it appears the soon-to-be vacant Turner Field site is out, while the Georgia World Congress Center is a strong contender, reports the Atlanta-Journal Constitution. While in the preliminary stages, State Rep. Ron Stephens tells the paper, “I’ve seen what they want to do, and it’s going to blow your mind. It’s massive in its size and its elegance. This is a game changer. I’m looking for a win-win-win and this is it.” Proposed legislation would allow localities to have voters approve casino gambling in their district, but any specific plans would still need an OK from the governor and from the state lottery commission. And a spokesperson for Gov. Nathan Deal hinted strongly that an approval wouldn't come during his administration. [AJC]
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