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JANUARY 30, 2001

Although the Department of Interior declined to authorize expanded gaming for the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Seneca tribal leaders hope they can offer Class III games on their New York reservation without a compact.

The tribe currently has a bingo hall and attempted to negotiate a compact with the state to offer Class III games. But they have been unable to obtain one.

The Secretary of Interior is allowed to enter into compacts with tribes in those instances. Whether or not the tribe might do so with Gale Norton, expected to be confirmed today, is another question.

In the Seminole case, she signed a legal brief supporting the state of Florida's defense of sovereign immunity when tribe challenged their refusal to negotiate a compact. The Supreme Court decided in favor of Florida, a ruling which paved the way for the rules allowing the Secretary to enter into compacts with tribes.

Get the Story:
Senecas hope ruling will allow for expansion of gaming hall (AP 1/29)

Relevant Links:
The National Indian Gaming Commission - www.nigc.gov