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APRIL 17, 2001

The New Mexico State Legislature recently approved new gaming compacts with the state's tribes but Pojoaque Pueblo won't be signing onto them.

Like the rest of the tribes, the Pueblo refused to pay to the state 16 percent of casino revenues to the state. But while the rest have since agreed to make back payments to the state in response to a lawsuit filed by Attorney General Patricia Madrid, the tribe has objected.

The reason, say Pueblo leaders, is simple. They believe the rate is illegal and intend to fight it in court.

But they also have another. Leaders say they've spent nearly all of the money they would might end up paying the state. They owe at least $12 million.

The tribe said it spent the money on other more important projects such as a new police unit and an apartment complex.

Pojoaque Pueblo is located in northern New Mexico. It has about 325 members, one of the smaller tribes in the state.

Get the Story:
Tiny N.M. pueblo's plans a big gamble (The Albuquerque Tribune 4/17)