North Carolina Tribal Casino Proposal Heads to June Vote

A major casino decision is approaching in North Carolina, with the Lumbee Tribe preparing to hold a special election this June that could clear the way for a new tribal gaming development in the state.

The vote marks another significant moment for the tribe following its long awaited federal recognition, opening the door to gaming opportunities that were previously out of reach.

A Vote That Could Reshape Tribal Gaming in the State

The special election is scheduled for the 23rd of June and will ask Lumbee tribal members whether the Tribal Council should receive authority to regulate gaming activities. If approved, the amendment would allow the tribe to move forward with casino development plans tied to land it owns in Robeson County near Interstate 95.

The site covers roughly 240 acres and was acquired by the tribe last year as part of its long term economic development plans.

Federal Recognition Changed the Conversation

For decades, the Lumbee Tribe pushed for federal recognition without success. That changed in late 2025 when Congress officially recognized the tribe, giving it access to rights and protections available under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

The designation now allows the tribe to conduct Class I and II gaming on sovereign land. To operate full scale casino gaming including slot machines and live table games, the tribe would still need to negotiate a Class III compact with the state.

A Potential Fourth Tribal Casino in North Carolina

If the project moves forward, the Lumbee casino would become the fourth tribal gaming property in North Carolina. The state currently has casino operations run by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and the Catawba Nation.

The Lumbee Tribe would join a growing tribal gaming market that has continued expanding across the Southeast in recent years.

More Than Just a Casino Project

Tribal leadership has presented the vote as part of a much larger conversation around economic development. Lumbee Chairman John Lowery said the tribe’s future direction, including whether gaming becomes part of that future, should be determined directly by tribal members.

Early plans connected to the property include not only a casino and hotel but also additional entertainment and mixed use elements such as a water park and golf related attractions. The location near Interstate 95 is also viewed as strategically important because of the heavy travel traffic running through the region.

What Happens Next

The June vote will determine whether the Lumbee Tribe formally moves ahead with gaming development. If members approve the constitutional amendment, the tribe can begin taking further regulatory and development steps tied to casino operations.

If the measure fails, tribal leadership has stated the land could still be used for other economic projects. For now, though, the vote represents one of the biggest tribal gaming developments currently unfolding in North Carolina.

Stay tuned to UMG Gaming for more updates on tribal gaming, regulation, and the evolving U.S. gaming landscape.