Indian Gaming > Governor's demand is half of tribal casino take

October 25, 2004

Governor's demand is half of tribal casino take

Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R) says his demand for $350 million from gaming tribes is about 25 percent of their take. But tribal officials say it is half of tribal revenues.

The tribes don't share revenue figures but those near urban areas they aren't making as much as Pawlenty claims. Tribes in remote areas, like the White Earth and Leech Lake Bands of Ojibwe, are barely making enough to stay open.

The tribes say Pawlenty bases his figures on wagering at casinos. When the cost of operating the casino and payouts are factored in, they say he is asking for an unprecedented amount.

Get the Story:
State's take could be half of casinos' profits (The Minneapolis Star Tribune 10/23)
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