Tribes have until March 9 to comment on the four controversial Class II initiatives proposed by the National Indian Gaming Commission.

In notices published today in the Federal Register, the NIGC extended the comment period on the following: classification standards for bingo, pull tabs and similar games; a definition of electronic Class II games; minimum internal control standards for Class II games and technical standards for Class II games.

The NIGC says the rules will clarify the difference between Class II games like bingo and Class III games like slot machines. Technological advances have blurred the lines.

"Class II gaming has been the bedrock of Indian gaming and continues to play a vital role in the expanding industry. In order to preserve and respect the importance of Class II gaming, we are moving forward keeping all comments in mind and will act in a way to distinguish Class II gaming from Class III gaming," NIGC Chairman Phil Hogen said.

Federal Register Notices:
Classification Standards for Bingo, Lotto, Other Games Similar to Bingo, Pull Tabs and Instant Bingo as Class II Gaming When Played Through an Electronic Medium Using ``Electronic, Computer, or Other Technologic Aids'' (January 17, 2008)
Definition for Electronic or Electromechanical Facsimile (January 17, 2008)
Minimum Internal Control Standards for Class II Gaming (January 17, 2008)
Technical Standards for Electronic, Computer, or Other Technologic Aids Used in the Play of Class II Games (January 17, 2008)