Indian Gaming > Minnesota governor wants $350M from tribes

October 22, 2004

Minnesota governor wants $350M from tribes

Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R) is threatening to open up the state to non-Indian gaming unless tribes agree to share $350 million a year in revenues.

Pawlenty says he will guarantee tribal exclusivity to Class III gaming if the agree to a new revenue-sharing compact. He says the $350 million figure amounts to 25 percent of their profits.

Tribes say Pawlenty is way off base with his estimates. They also point out that 25 percent of profits is unprecedented -- Connecticut tribes share 25 percent of slot machine revenues, not profits.

Pawlenty is demanding tribes meet with him on October 27 to discuss the deal. Tribal leaders aren't planning on showing up.

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Pawlenty wants tribes to pay $350 million (The Minneapolis Star Tribune 10/22)
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Gambling expansion (The Minneapolis Star Tribune 10/22)
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