MS HB1480

Secretary of State gains authority to approve leases for gaming operations on Public Trust Tidelands, with gaming licensees required to obtain a separate tidelands lease regardless of other municipal or county authority.

Gaming leases on Public Trust Tidelands are set for 30-year terms with annual rent adjustments tied to the Consumer Price Index, exempting gaming sites approved before December 31, 2024.

Secretary of State is established as the Land Commissioner and Trustee managing all Public Trust Tidelands held by the state, with divesting authority requiring specific legislative action.

Gaming establishments must meet minimum requirements including 500-car parking facility, 300-room hotel, 40,000 square-foot casino floor, restaurants, and unique amenities; requirements apply to new applications after December 31, 2024.

Gaming operations on Public Trust Tidelands cannot be located on constructed sand beaches, and municipalities and port commissions are prohibited from leasing or providing gaming-related access to Public Trust Tidelands.