Lumbee Council Backs Gaming Ordinance 14-2

The Lumbee Tribal Council has approved a gaming ordinance by a 14-2 vote, clearing the way for a referendum in which tribal members will decide the future of gaming for the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. 

The vote was taken at a specially called meeting on Thursday night, following the council's regular meeting, according to BizFayetteville.

The ordinance now goes to Tribal Chairman John Lowery, who has 10 days to certify it. After certification, the ordinance is expected to go before Lumbee voters 45 days later, with the Tribe's Election Board setting the official date. 

Tribal officials indicated that the referendum is expected between December 10 and December 15, 2026.

A Potentially Historic Step

BizFayetteville describes the council's wide margin as a potentially historic move toward gaming opportunities for the Tribe. 

The report says the referendum could have far-reaching implications for the Tribe's economic development, future revenue opportunities and the generations of Lumbee citizens to come.

The headline of the report notes that a potential casino project hangs in the balance. 

The vote does not itself authorize a casino: it approves the ordinance that voters will be asked to accept or reject. No site, operator or development timeline has been announced in the report.

Where Gaming Stands In North Carolina

Real-money online casino games are not currently regulated in North Carolina, while online sports betting is. 

Readers who want to see how regulated markets elsewhere compare can browse our guide to US online casinos and our list of North Carolina sportsbooks.