I was in Deadwood just before Labor Day (mid week). The place was practically dead. That should still be tourist season. Many of the casinos only deal blackjack on Friday and Saturday. Just not enough gamblers to support opening the tables on other nights. Similar situation for the poker tables, not enough players so the casinos space out games on different nights. The Gold Dust and Saloon No.10 were the only casinos that spread poker games both nights I was there. I think raising the betting limits is only a small part of the answer especially in the off season. Luckily I was able to buy chips at the cage in every casino. Even the Four Aces sold me $1 chips which are no longer used on the tables. They use tokens now. I hope raising the limits brings in more people and helps the residents of the area with jobs, etc. Many of the dealers I spoke with were concerned about keeping their jobs or losing hours if the measure did not pass.
Paul