New Mexico tribes push for action on Class III gaming compact


The Fire Rock Navajo Casino in New Mexico. Photo from Facebook

A final version of a new Class III gaming compact is expected to be sent to the New Mexico Legislature this week, The Albuquerque Journal reports.

The Navajo Nation, the Jicarilla Apache Nation, the Mescalero Apache Nation and the Acoma Pueblo have reached new deals with the state. Their existing agreements are due to expire in June but the legislative session ends March 21 so lawmakers will have to act quickly.

“As soon as it comes down, I expect it to move fast,” Sen. Clemente Sanchez (D), the chairman of the Committee on Compacts, told the Journal.

The additional tribes -- Zuni Pueblo and Jemez Pueblo -- are seeking compacts for the first time.

Get the Story:
Lawmakers’ OK sought on gambling compacts (The Albuquerque Journal 2/9)

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