Indian Gaming > Top lawmaker open to gaming in Massachusetts

March 30, 2007

Top lawmaker open to gaming in Massachusetts

Massachusetts Senate President Therese Murray (D) said she is open to the legalization of casino gaming in the state.

Murray, the first woman to lead the state Senate, cited the revenues gaming could bring to the state. She said Connecticut makes about $500 million a year under its tribal gaming compact.

The state has two recognized tribes, the Aquinnah Wampanoag and the Mashpee Wampanoag. Both are interested in opening casinos.

Neither tribe currently has land where a casino could be located. But the Mashpee, as a newly recognized tribe, would be able to qualify for an exception under Section 20 of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

The Aquinnah have a reservation on Martha's Vineyard but the tribe won't develop on the island. Also, the reservation is subject to state laws.

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Murray won't rule out casinos (The Cape Cod Times 3/30)