"Is this another step down a slippery slope or an isolated, one-of-a-kind aberration? We should know soon.

Gov. Bev Perdue has negotiated a deal with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, allowing them to use live card dealers at their western North Carolina casino.

The agreement amends a contract the tribe and the state signed before the casino opened in 1997. Until now, only electronic and video games had been available at Harrah's Cherokee Casino and Hotel.

The new contract doesn't require General Assembly approval, but the governor sent it to lawmakers anyway, because the Cherokees also want to add games like live poker and blackjack. That would require amending the state's gambling laws."

Get the Story:
Editorial: The deal - Will gaming pact lead to more North Carolina casinos? (The Fayetteville Observer 11/30)

Also Today:
Cherokee signs deal with Governor to bring live table games to Harrah’s (The Smoky Mountain News 11/30)
New GM’s job is to make good on Harrah’s gamble to transition from casino to resort (The Smoky Mountain News 11/30)
Live dealers may bring casino here (The Cherokee Scout 11/30)
Cherokee vote on alcohol sales a go next April (The Smoky Mountain News 11/30)

Related Stories:
Lawmakers not rushing to pass Eastern Cherokee casino pact (11/29)
Eastern Cherokees announce a new Class III gaming compact (11/28)