Gaming News

Texas Tribal Casino Hits Jackpot

EAGLE PASS, Texas – As reported by the Houston Chronicle: "The Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino was buzzing last week, and it wasn't just from the sound of hundreds of glitzy, electronic gambling machines.

"Casino operators were busily serving summer gamblers, training new workers and meeting to discuss long-range plans that had been on hold while the Texas Legislature was meeting.

"Now that lawmakers have adjourned their biennial session without expanding gambling options, this off-the-beaten-path venue is anticipating at least two more years as the only Texas casino with state and federal approval.

"…Efforts to allow video lottery terminals at racetracks and the state's two other American Indian reservations — the Tiguas in El Paso and Alabama-Coushatta near Livingston — failed to win lawmakers' backing again this year. The rejections came despite pressure to increase state revenue and polls suggesting strong support for new gaming options to benefit education.

"…One of the tribe's long-term goals is to acquire Class III status, which would give it a full array of Las Vegas-style gambling devices and games, including slots, craps, roulette and off-track betting.

"But for now, officials are relieved they'll continue to operate as the state's only Class II site. They're bracing for an increase in business as they move toward their busiest season around the year-end holidays…"

< Gaming News