Video Poker Proponents Challenge North Carolina Law

RALEIGH, North Carolina – As reported by the Associated Press: "Video poker machine owners and players sued North Carolina on Friday, challenging a law that will phase out the machines
North Carolina considers banning video poker.  by next summer.

"The phased out prohibition begins Oct. 1 and is expected to result in the loss of millions of dollars for the amusement machine business and convenience stores that operate the machines legally, said Dan Boyce, one of the lawyers representing the plaintiffs.

"The lawsuit asks that a judge declare the law unconstitutional and prevent state officials from enforcing it.

"Under the new law, the number of machines at any location would be reduced to two by Oct. 1, one by March 1 and zero on July 1, 2007. Repeat offenders or those caught with five or more machines would be guilty of a felony."