Georgia Gov.-Elect Eyes Casino Legalization to Support Education

Georgia is one of several states that have gained new life in potentially legalizing gambling, following the midterm elections.

Gov.-elect Keisha Lance Bottoms (D) is set to become the first Democrat to hold the state’s highest office since 2003. And unlike her Republican predecessors, she is open to approving casino legislation.

Bottoms’ belief is that the influx in tax revenue would have substantial positive impacts on the state.

Bottoms touts casino tax potential

Most states have legalized casinos. Even those that have resisted the nationwide spread of sports betting, which is now in 39 states and Washington, D.C., allow different forms of casino gaming.

Georgia is one of four states that does not have any sort of casino product, including  slot machines and  live-dealer table games, that are approved by state legislation. Changing this precedent would require a constitutional amendment with support from at least two-thirds of officials in both congressional chambers before a vote was put before the public.

Before attempts at legalization are made, lawmakers would need to set a variety of standards and procedures for licensed entities. These include licensing fees, tax rates, and regulatory structures. 

Bottoms’ campaign educational plan claimed that legal casinos could generate $300-500 million in annual tax revenue. That would support universal pre-K and early learning programs and college affordability, which has long been a point of emphasis in Georgia.

EchoPark Speedway in Henry County general manager Brandon Hutchison said that the racetrack has plans for a gaming facility and entertainment complex ready to go if and when Georgia legalizes casinos. He also estimated the undertaking would create 4,000-5,000 construction jobs and 2,500 permanent jobs. 

"The [project] renderings you saw represent about a billion dollars in investments in bolstering the area,” he said.

Georgia’s gambling chapter set to begin?

Georgia's  traditional, deep southern roots have made gambling a highly controversial topic. Religious groups and leaders have spoken out against possible legalization and encouraged lawmakers to avoid casinos, sports betting, and other popular forms of wagering. 

“I do not believe that God will hold us as citizens guiltless if we have more of this happen in the state of Georgia,” Baptist lobbyist Mike Griffin said during a gaming study committee hearing in 2025. 

Part of the reason that state officials nationwide have embraced gambling is that it was already occurring in their states. But without proper regulation, customers were presented with a variety of risks, while the state government did not recoup the tax benefits. 

“Then why don't you legalize fentanyl?” Griffin sarcastically asked on Monday, reciting arguments he made while lobbying. “Why don't you legalize human trafficking? Because they're already doing it anyway. We might as well regulate it.”

A variety of pro-casino bills have been introduced to the Georgia legislature, although none have received the necessary approval to go before voters. 

Georgia’s next legislative session and Bottoms’ gubernatorial tenure will both begin on Jan. 11, 2027.