Bill offers 'small window' for a tribal casino in Massachusetts

Wednesday, September 7, 2011  

A gaming bill introduced in Massachusetts gives a tribe until July 31, 2012, to negotiate a Class III compact with the state.

The bill also provides some time for a tribe to acquire land for a casino in the southeastern part of the state. But if it doesn't look like that will happen by August 2012, the state can open the bidding to other parties in that region.

“I think it’s quite an endeavor to be met by July 31,” Rep. Antonio Cabral told StateGateHouse News Service. “That doesn’t mean it can’t be done, but overall I think it’s a small window of opportunity. I think it’s fair that way.”

Massachusetts is home to the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe and the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe. The bill, however, only authorizes one compact and one casino in their region.

Get the Story:
Legislators happy with compromise on tribal rights in bidding for casino license (GateHouse News Service 9/7)

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