The $240 billion U.S. gambling industry is looking to bolster its political influence with a national effort to mobilize workers behind its policy agenda heading into the 2016 elections. The American Gaming Association (AGA), a trade group representing mainly casinos and lotteries, boasts a growing membership covering 40 states, and the trade group’s leadership vowed Wednesday to increase its clout in Washington, despite the loss of retiring Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.), an influential congressional ally. “We’re going to be more active in political discussion,” MGM Resorts International CEO Jim Murren told reporters Wednesday at the AGA’s shiny new D.C. digs….

A Louisiana bill that would legalize daily fantasy sports has met with opposition that threatens the bill’s future, at least for this legislative session. The bill from Rep. Joseph Lopinto — HB 475 — seeks to create a carveout in state law that differentiates playing fantasy sports from gambling. Legal Sports Report has learned that the Louisiana Family Forum and some brick-and-mortar gaming interests in the state have come out in opposition to the legislation. After relatively smooth sailing previously — it made it out of the state house with minimal opposition — the problems apparently began when the bill…