U.S. Senator John Kennedy is asking the state legislature to hold off on voting a bill that extends Harrah’s New Orleans Casino’s contract with the state for 30 years. Kennedy says media reports that Harrah’s is considering selling the property so the state could unwittingly increase Harrah’s selling price by extending the contract.
The House has already passed the measure. A Senate committee was set to debate the bill today, but has delayed discussion. Committee Chair Gary Smith says he postponed discussion, but it wasn’t because of Kennedy. Meanwhile, the US Senator says there is no rush to renew the contract.
Kennedy sought the delay after a published report that indicated Harrah’s allegedly signed an agreement with another entity to purchase the casino, hotel and parking garage.
If Harrah’s receives the extension, House Speaker Taylor Barras said it would result in a new luxury hotel, more restaurant and entertainment options at the land-based casino.