The Catawba Nation of South Carolina is pursuing gaming projects in two states with the hopes of expanding its economic options.
Options are limited because a land claim settlement requires the tribe to follow South Carolina's gaming laws. So the tribe is looking at neighboring North Carolina, where Class III gaming is legal, although plans there are still in the preliminary stages. “It is a strategy that allows tribes to diversity and generate economic opportunity,” Chief Bill Harris told The Rock Hill Herald. Despite restrictions in the settlement, the tribe believes South Carolina has opened the door to Class III gaming by authorizing casino boats. The case is before the state Supreme Court. The tribe is also pursuing its only other option in South Carolina -- a high-stakes bingo hall. Get the Story: