Top officials from the state of Alabama are meeting with U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft to talk about gaming.

Alabama Gov. Bob Riley (R) and state attorney general Troy King want "clarification of the federal government's stance on Indian gaming," a spokesperson said. They are apparently concerned about Class II versus Class III gaming.

The state has just one federally recognized tribe. King said he has been "investigating" casinos run by the Poarch Band of Creeks for alleged illegal gaming.

The tribe was working with the National Indian Gaming Commission to ensure all games in operation were Class II. Chairman Eddie Tullis wants to negotiate a Class III compact but Riley is opposed.

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Governor, AG seek Ashcroft's gaming opinion (The Birmingham News 9/8)