Eastern Cherokees consider sales of alcohol beyond casino

Wednesday, November 2, 2011  

Alcohol sales are legal at the casino owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians but tribal members are facing a plan to expand them throughout the reservation.

The referendum, if it appears on the ballot, asks tribal members to decide three questions. The tribe could open its own liquor store; allow beer, wine and liquor at tribal-owned businesses; or allow beer and wine at all tribal-licensed grocery stores and convenience stores, The Smoky Mountain News reported.

Supporters say sales could boost economic development on the reservation. But opponents say liquor at the Harrah's Cherokee Casino hasn't increased per capita payments as predicted.

Get the Story:
Let the battles begin in Cherokee (The Smoky Mountain News 11/2)

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