New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez (R) isn't "convinced" that an off-reservation casino will be good for the state but she's keeping an open mind on the issue.

Martinez, who took office in January, lives in southern New Mexico. That's where the Jemez Pueblo wants to build an off-reservation casino.

"The governor is not convinced that the benefits would outweigh the negative effects of precedent that would be set regarding off-site gaming," spokesperson Scott Darnell said in a statement to The Santa Fe New Mexican. "She is most concerned about promoting diverse and lasting economic development in the region."

"As always, the Governor is willing to listen to opposing views and fairly consider information provided by those who support a different position," the statement continued.

If the Bureau of Indian Affairs approves the casino, Martinez will get a chance to support it or veto it. Her approval is required because the tribe is proceeding under the two-part determination section of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

The BIA is taking comments on the draft environmental impact statement for the casino until July 1.

Get the Story:
BIA backs Jemez, Peters casino plan (The Santa Fe New Mexican 6/7)
Off-Reservation Casino Numbers Tempered (The Albuquerque Journal 6/7)

Federal Register Notice:
Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Proposed Pueblo of Jemez 70.277-Acre Fee-to-Trust Transfer and Casino Project, Don˜ a Ana County, NM (April 8, 2011)

Related Stories:
BIA extends comment period on Jemez Pueblo casino plan (6/6)
Groups opposed to Jemez Pueblo off-reservation casino (5/31)
Editorial: Jemez off-reservation casino deserves a chance (4/18)
Jemez Pueblo seeks meeting with governor on casino plan (4/14)
BIA releases report for Jemez Pueblo off-reservation casino (4/13)
Jemez Pueblo expects BIA report for off-reservation casino (4/11)
New Mexico governor open to Jemez Pueblo off-reservation casino (2/3)
Jemez Pueblo hopeful for second review of off-reservation casino (11/8)