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Bipartisan Support For Extending Harrah's NOLA State Contract

Courtesy: Harrah's NOLA-Facebook

HARRAH’S CONTRACT BILL -    The only land-based casino in New Orleans Harrah’s-- has a contract with the state of Louisiana  that is set to expire in 6 years…—   But a bill brought by Speaker of the House Taylor Barras, Republican from New Iberia-- would extend it for decades.  In return, Harrah's has agreed improve its facility with several millions in upgrades. Barras explained his reasons for the extension to the House Criminal Justice committee Wednesday.“My interest in it is truly the economic impact it makes for 

Credit Courtesy: La.Gov
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Courtesy: La.Gov
House Speaker Taylor Barras (R) New Iberia and Speaker Pro Tempore Walt Leger (D) New Orleans appear before La. House Committee on Administration of Criminal Justice Wed. 3/21/18

the state and the increased revenue opportunity that we have once this $350 million dollar is complete." Harrah's current contract is set to end in six years, but Barras' bill would extend it to another thirty. If approved, Harrah's has agreed to invest $350 million dollars in its facility. The original contract limited the number of hotel rooms and restaurants Harrah's could operate which was to drive guests to other local businesses. Under Barras' bill those restrictions would be lifted. Harrrah's $350 million dollar investment would pay for a second hotel and more restaurants but not gaming spaces.  Barras explained "This bill does not allow for an additional machine or an additional table or anything as it relates to gaming space on the floor." According to Harrah’s, the expansion will generate 

Credit Courtesy: Harrah's NOLA
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Courtesy: Harrah's NOLA
ROOMS & RESTAURANTS-Harrah's would spend $350 million on a new hotel and restaurants but not on additional gaming spaces if 30 year contract with Louisiana is approved by legislature.

an additional $13 million in taxes each year for Louisiana. The casino is already required to make annual payments of at least $60 million. As part of this contract extension, they'll increase that by $7 million. About half will go to the city, the other half to the state to help fund K-12 education. Sitting next to Barras was Speaker Pro Temp Walt Leger, Democrat of New Orleans. The two leaders, despite recent disagreement, found common ground on this bill.  Leger said "This may very well be one of the most important economic development bills you'll have the chance to vote on." The bill passed the committee without objection and is headed to the house floor.

Chuck Smith brings more than 30 years' broadcast and media experience to Red River Radio. He began his career as a radio news reporter and transitioned to television journalism and newsmagazine production. Chuck studied mass communications at Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia and motion picture / television production at the University of California at Los Angeles. He has also taught writing for television at York Technical College in Rock Hill, South Carolina and video / film production at Centenary College of Louisiana, Shreveport.