Tribally owned casinos across North Dakota have temporarily closed to protect their employees and visitors against COVID-19.

Scott Davis, executive director of the North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission, said the casinos, along with information from North Dakota Department of Health and Gov. Doug Burgum, made their decisions to temporarily shut down and when to take that step.

Davis noted the casinos are the economic lifeblood of the tribes so this was a major decision for each of them as well as making preparations for a temporary closure of these facilities.

He said the casinos will be temporarily closed for about two weeks and then reevaluate the COVID-19 situation.

4 Bears Casino and Lodge, west of New Town, temporarily closed on Friday at 1 p.m.

“At this time we do not have an anticipated opening date, but will do so soon as we’re informed the virus is no longer a threat. All restaurants and bars will be closed as well as the casino, hotel, event center and marina/bait shop. The Eagles Landing C-store will remain open to serve guests and travelers,” the 4 Bears website states.

Sky Dancer Casino and Resort at Belcourt temporarily closed all facilities to the public on Friday at 8 p.m.

Dakota Magic Casino at Hankinson temporarily closed at noon on Sunday.

Spirit Lake Casino and Resort at St. Michael and Grand Treasure Casino at Trenton are also closed.

Prairie Knights Casino and Resort at Fort Yates will temporarily close the casino, lodge, pavilion, event center and all restaurants today. The Quik Mart convenience store will remain open, according to its website.

Davis said many who work for tribes across the state are working remote during this time.