NC's Harrah's Cherokee Casino is planning to add 24 poker tables in early 2005
Harrah's Cherokee Casino plans more poker in NC next year
Live poker is being used to attract more people to The Harrah's Cherokee Casino, the only legal gambling hall in North Carolina. The Harrah's Cherokee Casino is planning to add 24 poker tables in early 2005. Additional poker tables will enable gamblers play Texas Hold ‘Em, a version of poker that has become popular because of televised tournaments, Online Casino News reported.The Harrah's Cherokee Casino, owned by the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation, says it would not take a cut of the poker action - a crucial distinction, allowing Harrah's to initially offer the game despite state law permitting only video-based versions.NC Governor Mike Easley, who has authority to make changes to the state's agreement with the tribe, said his office is aware of the interest in live poker.However, the Governor's Office acknowledged live poker might not be subject to the state's jurisdiction. If the house doesn't take a cut, the issue would fall to the National Indian Gaming Commission. No request has been received from the tribe to date. If one is it would be screened to see whether the plan complies with state and federal laws.A big uncertainty with more poker in NC still exists.
