Ban on video sweepstakes parlors passes

RALEIGH (The Raleigh News & Observer) - Thousands of state residents who enjoy clicking a virtual slot wheel or playing a hand of video poker in parlors and Internet cafes will have to find a new hobby.

On Wednesday, lawmakers voted to ban video sweepstakes parlors, rejecting arguments from industry supporters about the jobs, potential tax revenue and right to individual choice.

"This bill makes clear what our position is as to these enterprises. They are not welcome in North Carolina," said Rep. Melanie Wade Goodwin, a Rockingham Democrat, who called the industry a "cancer."