Local governments must consider the economic impact of a casino, if any, on the local economy. Although a new casino often promises new jobs, local unemployment rates may not change, and the increased tax revenue from the gambling halls should offset the expected short-term decline. But a casino’s promise of increased employment may not come to fruition in some communities. This is because many people who work in a casino do not reside in the area, and there may not be a large number of jobs available.

Unlike traditional casinos, modern casinos employ computer and video cameras to monitor the games. Known as “chip tracking,” these chips have built-in microcircuitry that enables the casino to track players’ bets minute-by-minute. Routinely monitored roulette wheels measure deviations in winnings and losses to ensure fair play. Also, many casinos have enclosed versions of games, which do not require dealers. Rather, the player places a bet using a button on a machine.

In the twenty-first century, casinos are more discerning in their patrons. They tend to concentrate their investments on a small group of high rollers, who spend far more than average. High rollers typically gamble in separate rooms from the main casino floor. Their stakes can be in the tens of thousands of dollars. Because of this, casinos make a great deal of money from these gamblers. They can also receive free drinks and cigarettes.