Indian Gaming > Oklahoma tribes moving to Class III market

December 02, 2004

Oklahoma tribes moving to Class III market

Oklahoma tribes are moving towards the Class III market with the approval of a tribal-state compact but attorneys say tribes should be worried about new regulations that will affect Class II games.

State Question 712 was approved by about 60 percent of the voters last month. It allows tribes to offer certain Class III games including video poker and blackjack, plus tournament-style card games.

Several tribes support the changes and have agreed to the compact. National Indian Gaming Commission Chairman Phil Hogen said he expects the Interior Department to approve the agreement.

But tribal attorneys said NIGC's proposed Class II game standards will restrict Oklahoma tribes. The Justice Department is advocating a strict standard, one attorney said.

The discussion occurred at the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association conference in Oklahoma City.

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Lawyers urge tribes to fight restrictions (The Oklahoman 12/2)
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Official expects OK on compacts (The Oklahoman 12/2)
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Gambling machine makers flock to annual convention (AP 12/2)