North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper vetoed a bill that would have officially authorized nonprofits to offer casino nights and certain raffles—which they already do. Cooper said he was concerned the measure would cause “unintended problems” like allowing the video poker industry to “masquerade” as a charity. Cooper said, “North Carolina law enforcement has fought for years against the for-profit video poker industry, and legitimizing charitable gambling in this way could give video poker a new way to infiltrate our communities. Without tough criminal penalties, enforcement would be difficult.” The bill classified violations as misdemeanors.
The bill passed the state House and Senate in late June by veto-proof majorities, but several senators were absent for the final vote.
Currently at casino nights, players may not bet with cash or win cash prizes; instead, chips or tokens are converted to raffle tickets. Also, the events may not be held west of Interstate 26, a concession to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians which operates Harrah’s Cherokee Casino.
The proposed legislation would have allowed nonprofits to hold casino nights four times a year at locations where alcohol lawfully is served. The bill also would have allowed employers or trade associations with at least 25 workers or members to sponsor casino nights.
The conservative North Carolina Family Policy Council praised Cooper’s veto, stating the measure “would lead to a significant expansion of legalized gambling in our state” if enacted.
