Since Monday, House leaders have been discussing with Gov. Benigno R. Fitial the new casino bill which will require the Senate’s nod.
After telling reporters on Friday that he would veto House Local Bill 17-44 because it was unconstitutional, Fitial met with Speaker Eli D. Cabrera, R-Saipan, Vice Speaker Felicidad T. Ogumoro, Covenant-Saipan, and other members of the House leadership to discuss a new measure.
None of the House leaders wanted to speak on the record about their discussions with the governor but some of them indicated that the new measure is likely to be passed by the Senate.
Sources said the bill mirrors H.L.B 17-44 with additional provisions earmarking 20 percent of the gaming tax for Rota and Tinian, which both have struggling casinos. The rest goes to Saipan and the Retirement Fund.
The new casino bill once again vows to restore the 80 working hours of government employees.
In telephone interview, Rep. Froilan C. Tenorio, Covenant-Saipan, said passing the bill after the Nov. 4 referendum may be too late. “The more we delay this, the more we chase away the interested investors,” he added.
He said if the Legislature wants to help the CNMI economy recover and save the Retirement Fund, “we have to pass the casino bill.”
