North Carolina Casinos: A Comprehensive Guide to Legal Gaming in the Tar Heel State

Introduction

North Carolina is one of the few states in the southeastern United States that does not allow traditional casino gambling. However, the state does permit certain forms of gaming, including electronic gaming machines (EGMs), bingo, and raffles. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the legal landscape of casino gaming in North Carolina, provide information on the various types of gaming available, and discuss the impact of gaming on the state's economy and society.

Legal Landscape of Casino Gaming in North Carolina

North Carolina's gambling laws are governed by the North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 14. These laws prohibit most forms of casino gambling, including slot machines, roulette, and blackjack. However, the state does allow certain exceptions, such as:

• Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs): EGMs are video game-like machines that simulate traditional casino games such as slots, poker, and roulette. EGMs are legal in North Carolina and are operated by licensed gaming establishments.
• Bingo: Bingo is a game of chance played on a card with numbered squares. Players mark off numbers on their cards as they are called out, and the first player to complete a winning pattern wins a prize. Bingo is legal in North Carolina and is typically played at churches, community centers, and other non-profit organizations.
• Raffles: Raffles are a form of gambling in which participants purchase tickets for a chance to win a prize. Raffles are legal in North Carolina and are often used as fundraisers for non-profit organizations.

Types of Gaming Available in North Carolina

As mentioned above, the only legal forms of casino gaming in North Carolina are EGMs, bingo, and raffles.

• Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs): EGMs are the most popular form of casino gaming in North Carolina. There are over 25,000 EGMs in operation at dozens of licensed gaming establishments across the state. EGMs offer a variety of games, including slots, poker, roulette, and blackjack.
• Bingo: Bingo is a popular game of chance that is played at churches, community centers, and other non-profit organizations. Bingo games typically offer cash prizes, and some organizations also offer non-cash prizes such as gift cards and merchandise.
• Raffles: Raffles are a popular way to raise funds for non-profit organizations. Raffles offer a variety of prizes, including cash, gift cards, and merchandise.

Impact of Casino Gaming on North Carolina

The legalization of casino gaming in North Carolina has had a significant impact on the state's economy and society.

Economic Impact:

• The gaming industry generates over $2 billion in annual revenue for the state of North Carolina.
• The gaming industry supports over 10,000 jobs in North Carolina.
• The gaming industry has helped to revitalize several communities in North Carolina.

Social Impact:

• Casino gaming has provided a new form of entertainment for residents of North Carolina.
• Casino gaming has helped to increase tourism in North Carolina.
• Casino gaming has raised millions of dollars for non-profit organizations in North Carolina.

Stories and What We Learn

There are many stories that can be told about the impact of casino gaming in North Carolina. Here are a few examples:

• The story of a small town that was revitalized by a casino: The town of Cherokee, located in the western part of North Carolina, was struggling economically before the opening of the Harrah's Cherokee Casino in 1997. The casino has brought thousands of jobs to the area and has helped to revitalize the local economy.
• The story of a non-profit organization that raised millions of dollars through a raffle: The North Carolina Museum of Art raised over $1 million through a raffle in 2019. The money raised from the raffle was used to fund the museum's educational programs and exhibitions.
• The story of a problem gambler who got help: The North Carolina Council on Problem Gambling provides free and confidential help to problem gamblers and their families. The Council has helped thousands of people to overcome their gambling addictions.

Strategies for Responsible Gaming

If you are considering gambling, it is important to do so responsibly. Here are a few tips for responsible gaming:

• Set a budget and stick to it.
• Only gamble with money that you can afford to lose.
• Take breaks from gambling regularly.
• Don't gamble if you are intoxicated.
• If you have a gambling problem, seek help.

Pros and Cons of Casino Gaming

There are both pros and cons to casino gaming. Here is a summary:

Pros:

• Casino gaming can generate revenue for the state.
• Casino gaming can create jobs.
• Casino gaming can provide a new form of entertainment.
• Casino gaming can help to raise money for non-profit organizations.

Cons:

• Casino gaming can lead to addiction.
• Casino gaming can have a negative impact on families and communities.
• Casino gaming can increase crime.

Conclusion

Casino gaming is a complex issue with both positive and negative impacts. It is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding whether or not to support casino gaming in North Carolina.