Alabama Democrats push for gaming compact for Poarch Creeks


A view of the gaming floor of the Creek Casino Montgomery. Photo from Facebook

The Democratic Caucus in the Alabama House of Representatives is calling on the state to enter into a Class III gaming compact with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.

The tribe operates Class II facilities and is eager to expand into Class III gaming. Gov. Robert Bentley (R) has refused to come to the table and Democrats say that's a mistake.

“The Poarch Creek Indians are here, and they aren’t going anywhere," said Rep. Thomas Jackson (D), who believes the state can secure a share of revenues from Class III gaming. "This is a win-win solution for everybody. The state gets the money it needs, and the Indians get to expand their operations.”

The tribe has said it is willing to share revenues but its attempts to negotiate a compact have been rebuffed by every governor.

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