Mississippi: MGM, other casinos confirm reopening dates

The Mississippi Gaming Commission has given the green light for casinos in the state to reopen on Thursday and many coast casinos are preparing. 

MGM Resorts International announced Tuesday the reopening dates of its Mississippi resorts, the first of the company's U.S. properties to reopen following closure earlier this year amidst the COVID-19 crisis. Gold Strike Casino Resort in Tunica will reopen in a limited capacity to the public on May 25, followed by Biloxi's Beau Rivage Resort & Casino's reopening June 1, also in a limited capacity. Each property will host an invitation-only weekend ahead of its public reopening.

The Golden Nugget Casino gets ready to reopen their gaming floors and restaurants on Thursday, and their Biloxi hotel, pool, and sports bars are opening today, as reported by WXXV. Boomtown Casino plans to reopen their doors on Thursday and Hollywood Casino will follow shortly after, opening at noon at 50 percent capacity. Table games remain closed and restaurants will be limited to prepackaged foods and drinks for both casinos.

"Our hearts are with everyone in our communities, and around the world, who has been personally impacted by this crisis," Bill Hornbuckle, MGM Resorts' Acting CEO and President, said in a release. "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."

Last week, MGM Resorts released its comprehensive "Seven-Point Safety Plan," a multi-layered set of protocols and procedures designed in conjunction with medical and scientific experts to deter the spread of the virus, protect customers and employees and rapidly respond to potential new cases. Per Mississippi Gaming Commission guidelines, a 50 percent capacity restriction will be enforced, table games and slot machines will be configured to allow for appropriate physical distancing, and valet parking will be temporarily discontinued. Complimentary self-parking will be available for guests.