Live table games will be permitted in the US state of North Carolina following the signing of a new casino compact between Governor Bev Perdue and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
The Eastern Band owns the Harrah’s Cherokee casino, which is operated by Caesars Entertainment. Under previous legislation, the state has only allowed video slots and electronic tables but now, following this new compact, live dealers will be introduced.
Principle chief Michell Hicks described the new legislation as “an important milestone” for both the tribe and the state.
“The new compact will immediately create 400 new jobs and inject $30m a year into an economy that has been hit hard in recent years,” he said.
The addition of live dealers is anticipated to attract new tourists, mostly from out of state.
“Truly we will now have a world-class tourist destination resort in Cherokee that will bring new life to our economy that can be sustained for years to come.”
In 2007, the Eastern Band approved a $633m expansion of the property, which is expected to be completed this year.
