Off-Reservation Gaming in Mississippi

In 1990, voters in Jackson County, Mississippi rejected legalized gambling. Now, the Mississippi Press reports on October 16th that the Mississippi Band of Choctaws are asking Jackson County voters to consider allowing an off-reservation tribal casino under IGRA's "best interests" exception.

Although the referendum would not be binding on the tribe's efforts, tribal leaders have indicated that they would respect voters' wishes. Tribal Chief Phillip Martin has said that "if the county doesn't want gaming, it's okay with us." Presumably, the referendum would inform Governor Haley Barbour's position on the casino proposal; under the "best interests" exception, the governor has what amounts to veto power over an off-reservation casino.