Connecticut tribes pay $25M in gaming dispute

Thursday, August 27, 2009  

The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the Mohegan Tribe agreed to pay the state of Connecticut $25 million to settle a gaming dispute.

The tribes offered a gaming promotion that allowed patrons to exchange coupons or credits for slot machine play. The state alleged the promotion violated the tribal-state gaming compact, which requires the tribes to share 25 percent of slot revenues.

A lawsuit against the Mashantuckets was proceeding but the tribes agreed to settle. "I respect and appreciate the strong tribal commitment to cooperation, which enabled our coming together. Clearly we have more in common than in conflict. We avoid a lengthy court battle -- with millions of dollars frozen in bank accounts -- and enable more jobs, more competitive casinos and more financial opportunities," said Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal.

Get the Story:
State gets $25M slots settlement (The New London Day 8/27)
Casinos Agree To Pay $25 Million To Settle Lawsuit With Connecticut (The Hartford Courant 8/27)
Tribes to pay $25M to state for slots use (AP 8/26)
Press Release: Attorney General and Executive Director Of DSR Announce $25 Million Settlement With Tribes Over Disputed Slot Revenue (Connecticut Attorney General 8/26)