Gambling in the USA

Catawba Indian Nation Obtains Approval for North Carolina Casino

Published

6 years ago

March 17, 2020

The Catawba Indian Nation has got approval from the federal government to construct and operate a casino and resort on land over the border in North Carolina.

The U.S. Department of the Interior cleared the American Indian tribe’s request to use 16 acres of land near Interstate 85 in Kings Mountain. The location is about 35 miles northwest of the Catawba reservation in upstate South Carolina.

The $273 million investment in the entertainment complex could generate more than 1600 construction jobs and create more than 3000 direct and indirect jobs once built.

The tribe “is very thankful for the department’s decision to take this land into trust, enabling us to achieve the promise of self-determination though economic development,” tribal Chief Bill Harris said.

Catawba leaders claim historical and legal ownership of the land. But the Eastern Band of Cherokee in North Carolina, with two casinos located in the state’s mountains, disagree and say the Catawba should stay in their own state.

“The federal government has no right or authority to create a new reservation for the Catawba Nation across state lines, into Cherokee historical territory, just to build a casino,” Chief Richard Sneed said.

The Interior Department’s approval came as North Carolina Sens. Richard Burr and Thom Tillis and South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham introduced a bill last year would have directed the agency to authorise gambling on the land.

Burr called the decision “the right call.”

“Congress always intended for the Catawba tribe to be able to take land into trust in North Carolina, where they have deep, historic ties. I hope this decision will finally allow the Catawbas to move closer toward their goal of creating jobs and economic development in Kings Mountain with state and local support,” Burr said in a statement.

Bill Harris said that the casino would be paid for by unidentified investors. It would be run by Delaware North, which manages sports and entertainment venues in addition to casinos.

“It’s a righting of a wrong. We have now regained what once belonged to us,” Harris said.

Up Next

Spanish National Lottery Temporarily Stops Ticket Sales

Don't Miss

BlueOcean gaming integrates Woohoo Games

Gambling in the USA

Teamsters at Rio Hotel Ratify Strong Contract, Avert Strike

Published

3 days ago

January 20, 2026

GamingAmericas.com

teamsters-at-rio-hotel-ratify-strong-contract,-avert-strike

Workers at Rio Hotel and Casino, represented by Teamsters Local 986, have overwhelmingly ratified a strong four-year collective bargaining agreement. The group of 62 front desk workers, laborers, warehouse workers, and valet attendants secured higher wages, improved benefits, and stronger workplace protections.

“Our members stood strong, and management had no other choice but to deliver. This win belongs to every worker who refused to be ignored, and it proves that when we fight as one, we secure real improvements,” said Tim Vera, President of Local 986.

The four-year deal delivers a 15% wage increase, improved vacation policies, and continued coverage under the Teamsters Health and Welfare plan. The contract also includes job protections against technology and an option for workers to enroll into the Teamsters 401(k) plan.

“All we asked for was a fair contract that allows us to do our job without worrying. We didn’t want to strike, but we were ready if it came to that. Now we can come to work knowing that management listened and that our labor is respected,” said Malinda Zarcone, a front desk worker and steward at Local 986.

The agreement was reached after workers voted to authorize a strike on Nov. 10 over unfair labor practices. The vote followed nearly two years of stalled negotiations by Dreamscape, the property’s owner.

“Management dragged out negotiations and our members held them accountable. We don’t tolerate delays and disrespect toward our members. We’re always prepared to take action and win,” said Tommy Blitsch, Director of the Teamsters Convention, Trade Show, and Casino Division.

The post Teamsters at Rio Hotel Ratify Strong Contract, Avert Strike appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.

Gambling in the USA

MONOPOLY Table Games Progressive from Galaxy Gaming debuts at the Plaza Hotel & Casino

Published

1 week ago

January 13, 2026

GamingAmericas.com

monopoly-table-games-progressive-from-galaxy-gaming-debuts-at-the-plaza-hotel-&-casino

MONOPOLY Table Games Progressive brings the beloved classic to life in the casino pit, transforming every round into a dynamic and rewarding experience. Mr. Monopoly is the star of the show, randomly selecting hands and providing exciting multipliers up to 10x, keeping players engaged and on the edge of their seats.

Details

Designed to deliver high energy and volatility without compromising house edge, the MONOPOLY Table Games Progressive is unlike anything the industry has seen. With nostalgic animations and familiar visuals, this theme adds a fresh layer of excitement to the table—and best of all, it’s compatible with nearly any Galaxy Gaming progressive.

‍

The post MONOPOLY Table Games Progressive from Galaxy Gaming debuts at the Plaza Hotel & Casino appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.

Arizona Benefits Fund

Arizona Department of Gaming Reports $44.9 Million in Tribal Gaming Contributions for Q2 FY 2026

Published

2 weeks ago

January 8, 2026

Wladimir P.

arizona-department-of-gaming-reports-$44.9-million-in-tribal-gaming-contributions-for-q2-fy-2026

The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) has officially announced a total of $44,891,270 in tribal gaming contributions to the Arizona Benefits Fund for the second quarter of Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. This performance marks an approximate 5.6 percent increase compared to the same period in FY 2025, signaling continued strength in the state’s tribal gaming sector.

These contributions are vital to the state’s infrastructure, supporting everything from classroom improvements to emergency medical services.

“The financial support that tribal gaming provides the state of Arizona continues to power local and statewide needs that are vital to healthy and safe communities,” said Jackie Johnson, Director of the ADG. “With nearly $45 million in tribal gaming contributions in the most recent period, the Department is proud to ensure the continuation of important revenue streams that positively impact Arizonans.”

Where the Money Goes: The Arizona Benefits Fund

Under the Arizona Tribal-State Gaming Compact, 88 percent of all tribal gaming contributions are directed into the Arizona Benefits Fund. This revenue is strictly allocated to high-priority state initiatives.

The Q2 FY 2026 distribution breakdown is as follows:

Fund Category	Contribution Amount
Instructional Improvement Fund (Education)	$22,373,810
Trauma and Emergency Services Fund	$11,186,905
ADG Operating Costs	$4,040,214
Arizona Wildlife Conservation Fund	$3,196,258
State Tourism Fund	$3,196,258
Problem Gambling Education & Treatment	$897,825
Total to Arizona Benefits Fund	$44,891,270

Local Community Impact

Beyond the state-level funds, the remaining 12 percent of tribal contributions are distributed directly by the tribes to specific cities, towns, and counties. these funds are often used for local community services and public safety programs.

Since FY 2004, cumulative contributions from Arizona’s tribes have surpassed $2.5 billion, demonstrating the long-term economic impact of the partnership between the state and its 22 federally recognized tribes.

Regulatory Oversight and Growth

Currently, the ADG regulates 26 Class III casinos across the state in close partnership with tribal authorities. This regulatory framework ensures the integrity of the games while maximizing the benefits delivered to the public.

For those interested in exploring historical data, the ADG maintains a comprehensive archive of cumulative tribal gaming contributions by year.

To learn more about the current landscape of gaming in the state, visit the official Tribal Gaming webpage.

The post Arizona Department of Gaming Reports $44.9 Million in Tribal Gaming Contributions for Q2 FY 2026 appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.