Georgia law currently prohibits casino gambling, and despite several legislative efforts over the years, none have succeeded in overturning that ban. The state’s General Assembly has considered numerous proposals to legalize casinos, but every attempt has either stalled or failed to gain sufficient support.
However, in February 2024, the Georgia Senate made a significant move by approving a referendum that could open the door for casinos and sports betting. If voters approve this referendum, it would mark a historic shift in the state’s approach to gambling. The bill sets an ambitious timeline, proposing July 2, 2025, as the start date for new gambling operations.
Beyond legalization, the bill outlines how tax revenues from casinos and sports betting would be allocated. It proposes that 50% of the revenue be directed towards transportation infrastructure improvements, which are critical for Georgia’s growing population and urban development. Another 20% would go to fund pre-kindergarten and child-care programs, aiming to address the state’s educational needs from the ground up.
The remaining 30% would be split equally among mental health and gambling addiction programs, rural healthcare, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Georgia, reflecting a broad focus on community welfare and underserved areas.
Economic Advantages: Jobs and Revenue
From a purely economic standpoint, the introduction of casinos could be a game-changer for Atlanta. One of the most compelling arguments is the potential job creation that would come with large-scale casino projects.
Proposals like the $1 billion casino resort at Atlanta Motor Speedway could lead to the creation of thousands of jobs, not only during the construction phase but also in its day-to-day operations. It would span various sectors—from hospitality to entertainment—offering steady employment in both high-skill positions.
Moreover, casinos represent a new source of revenue for the state. By imposing taxes on gambling activities and licensing fees on operators, Georgia could funnel millions of dollars into its state budget. This revenue could help fund public services, particularly education, where additional resources are often in demand.
The state’s lottery system already demonstrates how legalized gambling can benefit public welfare programs. Since its inception, the Georgia Lottery has generated billions for education, and proponents argue that a similar system for casino gambling could significantly increase the funds available for initiatives like the HOPE Scholarship.
The Push for Tourism and Business
Casinos could significantly boost Atlanta’s already thriving tourism sector. The city is a major hub for both business and leisure travel, but legalized casinos would elevate Atlanta as a top-tier destination. Cities like Las Vegas and Atlantic City have long demonstrated the positive economic impact of casinos, attracting tourists who spend on not just gambling but also dining, shopping, and entertainment.
The introduction of online casinos could further expand Atlanta’s appeal in addition to brick-and-mortar casinos. Promotions like the DraftKings Casino promo code would entice visitors and locals alike to engage with digital gambling platforms, increasing participation and revenue.
The spillover effect could be significant for Atlanta’s local businesses, many of which rely on foot traffic from tourists. In addition to attracting more tourists, casinos could complement Atlanta’s conference and convention industries.
The city already hosts numerous large-scale events, and the inclusion of casinos could provide an added incentive for organizers to choose Atlanta for their gatherings. It can further increase the city’s competitiveness as a top destination for national and international business events.
Public Support vs. Legislative Hurdles
Despite strong economic arguments, the road to legalization has been far from smooth. Legalizing casinos in Georgia requires a constitutional amendment, which is a multi-step process involving both legislative approval and a public referendum. In recent polls, a majority of Georgia voters—66%—expressed support for the legalization of casinos, and an even higher percentage, 85%, believe the issue should be decided by voters.
However, despite this public backing, several attempts to pass casino-related legislation have failed in the Georgia General Assembly. Political opposition, particularly from conservative lawmakers and religious groups, remains a significant barrier.
Religious organizations, in particular, have been vocal about their concerns. They argue that casino gambling could lead to a rise in moral decay, drawing comparisons between legalized gambling and harmful substances like drugs.
Addressing Social Concerns
Opponents of casino legalization often cite the potential social harm as their primary concern. Gambling addiction is a serious issue that can lead to financial ruin for individuals and families.
In areas where casinos have been legalized, there have been reports of increased rates of problem gambling, which in turn can lead to other social problems such as higher crime rates and economic disparities.
Proponents of legalization argue that these risks can be mitigated through strong regulatory frameworks. By establishing responsible gambling measures, such as self-exclusion programs and providing resources for addiction treatment, the state could help curb some of the negative effects associated with gambling.
Final Thoughts
The next state general election in 2024 presents a critical opportunity for advocates of casino legalization. A referendum could potentially be placed on the ballot, allowing voters to directly decide whether they want to bring casinos to Georgia. If approved, the earliest possible timeline for operational casinos would be 2025.
However, there are signs that the momentum for legalization might stall yet again. In 2024, several legislative efforts aimed at legalizing sports betting—a related but separate issue—failed to gain sufficient traction. It suggests that despite public support, political hurdles remain formidable.