ATLANTA — A revived plan for casino gaming still faces resistance from the faith community and others, but carving out proceeds for rural healthcare might help.

“I need to bring more to the table than, ‘Let’s go gambling.’ They’re not going to go for that,” said Rep. Sam Watson, who is Baptist. The Moultrie Republican now heads the rural caucus, replacing Rep. Jason Shaw, who leads the new House Transportation Appropriations Committee.

Rural Georgia wants “a shot at some of those funds,” Watson reported telling Rep. Ron Stephens, R-Savannah, who is sponsoring the casino bill. Giving even a small percentage to the state’s fragile rural hospitals might help garner support, he said.

Consistent funding would be a boost for those rural hospitals, Watson said.

A new tax credit benefiting rural hospitals offers uneven help, since not all hospitals are likely to raise money. Lawmakers are considering tweaks to sweeten the program.

A scaled-back plan for casino-style gambling was filed last week. It allows for two “destination resorts” – one in Atlanta and one in another urban area – rather than the four or more called for previously.

State proceeds will go to HOPE scholarships and needs-based scholarships. An allocation for rural health care was not part of the bills filed last week.

Watson said rural legislators will also channel their energy this session toward spurring job growth in smaller communities.

“We’ve had a lot of job growth, but the job growth has been in the more metro areas of the state,” he said.