North Carolina Gov. Mike Easley (D) said the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians must pay before the state will agree to a new Class III compact.

The tribe has been negotiating with the state in order to offer live dealers for card games like poker and blackjack. Principal Chief Michell Hicks said he is confident an agreement will be reached.

The existing compact requires the tribe to contribute $5 million a year to a foundation that funds certain projects but doesn't require any revenue-sharing with the state.

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Tribe must pay to add new games at casino (The Asheville Citizen-Times 12/8)