Jackpot247 responds to Mississippi plan for online gambling study

(PRESS RELEASE) -- Leading online casino company, Jackpot247 has commented on plans announced by the Mississippi House Gaming Committee (MGC) to examine how online gambling could help stimulate the state’s economy.

MGC Chairman, Richard Bennett, has authorized a task force to produce a study as they look to address a steady decline in falling revenues from its shrinking casino industry.

As a major part of their investigation, the eight-member group will be scrutinizing the states where online gambling is regulated, Nevada, Delaware and New Jersey, to assess their operating systems, geolocation technology and the policies they implement in order to prevent underage gamblers and gambling addicts from betting on their websites.

Allen Godfrey, executive director of the MGC, will oversee the task force as they look to deliver their non-legislative proposals by the end of 2014. Commenting on its responsibilities, he said: “Our most important role in this task force will be advisory, with data and analysis about Internet gambling. We will not be making any recommendations regarding any new legislation or regulations.”

The Mississippi task force will also analyze sports betting options, after legislators convinced MGC Chairman of the potential benefits that it could bring to the state.

Similar to other casino states in the U.S., Mississippi has experienced a fall in gambling income over the last few years and in 2013 the decline in revenues exceeded 5% with $2.136 billion collected, compared to $2.251 billion the previous year. Consequently the state, whose casino industry employs 23,000 people, saw tax revenues drop to $263 million last year, with much of the decrease being blamed on the competition emanating from nearby states.

A spokesperson for Jackpot247 praised the decision saying: “The gambling industry is evolving and we applaud the decision of the MGC for considering the merits of online betting.”

Jackpot247 designs, creates and operates live roulette games broadcast on ITV and Sky channel 86, using casino certified equipment. With the best range of online casino games, the firm also provides live blackjack online, roulette, poker, arcade games and Jackpot 247 casino slots available to play online and on mobile, with a view to providing an authentic casino experience to the home. The company encourages responsible gambling and only provides games manufactured to the highest standards to ensure customer satisfaction.