The Seminole Tribe of Florida is still waiting on new Gov. Charlie Crist (R) to begin negotiations for a Class III compact.

The tribe has the right to operate slot machines after voters approved them in South Florida in 2004. But former Gov. Jeb Bush (R), the president's brother, refused to negotiate a deal.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs stepped in, saying it would issue rules for the tribe. But then Crist was elected, and he asked Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthore to hold off pending negotiations

Talks still haven't happened so this week, the tribe has since filed a federal lawsuit against the Interior Department, warning that it could offer slot machines whether or not the state approves. The tribe is willing to share revenues under a compact.

Crist said he is open to a compact but acknowledged formal talks haven't started.

Get the Story:
Tribe warns state: Make deal on slots (The Palm Beach Post 3/8)
Seminoles' suit all about revenue (The Miami Herald 3/8)
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Crist open to broader Seminole gaming accord (The South Florida Sun-Sentinel 3/8)
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