Indian Gaming > Q&A: What is a 'better deal' for Minnesotans?

March 29, 2004

Q&A: What is a 'better deal' for Minnesotans?

Revenue-sharing fever has hit Minnesota hard since Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R) called for tribes to renegotiate their gaming compacts with the state. The Minneapolis Star Tribune seeks perspectives on the issue from a Republican lawmaker who is threatening to allow non-Indian gaming and representatives of the Prairie Island Indian Community.

Prairie Island Vice President Ron Johnson: "We were given a compact from the state in good faith ... I think it was assumed we wouldn't succeed in gaming. Now you have the bad economy and successful Indian casinos, and they want part of what we have."

House Speaker Steve Sviggum: "Times have changed dramatically in the last 15 years. We have some state budget needs right now that are fairly important. Other states are receiving some gaming resources ... we get nothing."

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A discussion on gambling, government (The Minneapolis Star Tribune 3/27)
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