Indian Gaming > Minn. tribes oppose governor's call for 'better deal'

March 02, 2004

Minn. tribes oppose governor's call for 'better deal'

Last month, Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R) said he would renegotiate gaming compacts with tribes in order to get a "better deal" for Minnesotans.

But the First Minnesotans aren't interested in a new arrangement. Red Lake treasurer Darrell told MPR that he was surprised by the call. "But what's another broken promise, broken treaty," he said.

Tribes, large and small, rural and urban, signed compacts 15 years ago. Today, 18 casinos that have reduced unemployment for tribal members. John McCarty of the Minnesota Indian Gaming Association says tribes have generated 14,000 jobs without any help from the state.

"Pretty good deal," McCarty told MPR. "And I think if somebody came into Minnesota tomorrow morning and offered that kind of deal, Minnesota would be jumping up and down to do tax incentives."

Get the Story:
Tribes oppose reopening gambling compacts (Minnesota Public Radio 3/1)