Atlantic City Testing Electronic Poker Dealers

The New Jersey Casino Control Commission recently approved testing of electronic dealers in local casinos. Eleven of Atlantic City's casino establishments may soon begin testing the electronic poker dealers and roulette tables; a controversial issue most notably for human dealers who feel their jobs are at stake.

According to Linda M. Kassekert, Chairwoman of the Casino Control Commission, "I think it adds a new element to the Atlantic City market." Kassekert then referred to the growing competition from neighboring states, "and [it] is particularly important because Pennsylvania and Delaware have them." The slot parlors in these adjacent locations having already implemented electronic poker, baccarat and blackjack tables.

Spokesmen for the commission revealed the intention not to eliminate human dealers, but rather to encourage casino patrons from neighboring competition to visit Atlantic City casinos, especially those who find human dealer tables more intimidating than electronic ones.

The electronic tables will maintain the same basic appearance as before, with a full table and seating for all players, yet there will be individual computer screens for each player to read their cards. Roulette tables will also contain electronic betting and payout machines, however a live dealer will still be present to spin the wheel.

Though fully approved to do so, no casinos have yet made a move to begin testing of the new electronic dealers, nor have any set forth a timetable to do so.