South Dakota: Deadwood's gaming handle sets record in November 

According to data released before Christmas by the South Dakota Commission of Gaming, Deadwood gaming set a record in November, with an increase in gaming handle of more than 13% over the same time period in 2019 despite ongoing concerns with COVID-19 exposure risks.

Slot machine handle increased by 15.13% when compared to November 2019, the Rapid City Journal reports.

Although those were record numbers, not all was good for table games at Deadwood's casinos. The report showed table game handle slipped by 11.81%.

Deadwood Gaming Association Executive Director Mike Rodman said even with the slight decrease in table gaming, the overall picture is positive for a year that saw multiple closures, reduced seating and stringent precautions casinos made during the pandemic.

"Another great month for Deadwood gaming. These numbers continue to show that our visitors feel safe playing in Deadwood," Rodman said. "Despite the COVID shutdown earlier this year, gaming revenue is now currently down only 4.1% year-to-date for 2020.”

The report from the Commission on Gaming showed casino patrons put nearly $89 million in slot machines and table games in November. Since the beginning of the year, $1.25 billion has been spent on gambling in Deadwood.

Deadwood gaming operators rewarded players with $1,214,013 in "free-play" for the month of November, leaving taxable adjusted gross revenues of $7,869,175 for November 2020.