MGM Resorts has announced plans to reopen Its Mississippi venues amid the coronavirus pandemic.
MGM Resorts International is the latest US casino operator to outline plans to reopen its gambling facilities in Mississippi after closing due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In the state of Mississippi, all casinos venues have been closed since 16 March in order to help stop the spread of the coronavirus.
MGM’s plan to reopen Mississippi venues
MGM plans to reopen Gold Strike Casino Resort in Tunica on 25 May, with the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi to follow on 1 June. In the announcement, MGM said it will host an invitation-only weekend at each casino before they reopen to the public.
In accordance with guidelines from the Mississippi Gaming Commission, each casino will operate at 50% capacity. MGM also said that its table games and slot machine areas will be configured to allow for social distancing inside venues.
Bill Hornbuckle, MGM Resorts’ Acting CEO and President said: “Our hearts are with everyone in our communities, and around the world, who has been personally impacted by this crisis. As we plan to reopen our resorts, the health and safety of our guests and employees guide all of our decision-making. Getting many of our employees back to work and welcoming guests through our doors once again will allow us to do what we do best – entertain. We can’t wait.”
Health and safety measures
MGM said it will implement its own enhanced health and safety measures at the two Mississippi casinos. Last week, MGM announced a new seven-point plan for the safe reopening of its casinos across the US.
The measures outlined in MGM’s safe reopening plan include staff screening, temperature check and coronavirus specific training. There will also be a mandatory requirement for employees to wear masks. Fabricated hand-washing stations will also be installed on casino floors.
Plexiglass barriers will also be installed in areas where it will be difficult to enforce social distancing. Another measure will include allowing guests to view digital menus on their mobile phones and allow for the sending of text message notifications when tables are ready.
Guests will also be encouraged to wear masks and, when drinking on the casino floor, will be asked to minimise how long these are removed for. Eating on the casino floor will not be allowed.
Other plans to reopen across the US
MGM’s plan to reopen its Mississippi venues comes as Boyd Gaming announced plans to reopen its casinos in the state. Boyd hopes to reopen its IP Casino Resort Spa and Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall on 21 May.
Boyd also hopes to recommence casino operations in Louisiana after Governor John Bel Edwards lifted certain coronavirus restrictions such as allowing casinos to reopen.
Caesars Entertainment has also outlined plans for a phased reopening of its casinos in New Jersey, Nevada and Iowa, but only when permitted by state governments and tribal regulators.
