Casinos in Minnesota will get a few days of leverage above other US states some properties plan a reopening on May 26. The casinos in the state have been shut for over two months because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tribal casinos will take the lead

Tribal casino operators are not obliged to follow through the state orders, which suggest reopening of all non-essential businesses by June 1. As the tribes enjoy sovereignty, they have decided to open their establishments on May 26. They followed Gov. Tim Waltz’s orders of shutting down all non-essential business activities in March to help the state in following social distancing and stay-at-home orders.

One of the three largest properties in the state, the Mystic Lake Casino, is planning to reopen with many safeguards in place. It will aim to adopt strict measures that could reduce the risk of person-of-person transmission. The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) operates the casino. It has decided to use plexiglass shields and enhance its sanitization measures to protect players. It will also reduce the capacity on the gaming floor.

Strict protocols in place

All customers and staff members of the casino will have to get their temperatures checked before they enter the gaming facilities. The gaming floors will be at half the capacity to ensure physical distancing. All people will have to use a mask when they are inside the property. Though some people have already started objecting to the mandatory mask practice within the premises, the casino intends to stay put with its decision.

Players can utilize alternate slot machines only. Table games places will also be reduced by 50%. The casino will not reopen its buffet and sit-down restaurant for now. It will also limit dining options to pre-packaged items. The tribe has already reopened its ice rinks and golf course.

President and CEO of the SMSC, Angela Heikes said that they will have to deal with COVID-19 for a very long time and aim to build the trust and confidence of their guests on the property.

Prairie’s Edge Casino Resort has already opened its property for customers. The Upper Sioux Community casino has also started operating with half the capacity of slot machines. It is also using plexiglass shields for precaution. Mask and other restrictions are similar to the SMSC.