Several California tribes say Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) has not responded to their offer to renegotiate their gaming compacts.

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians was part of a group of Inland tribes that made the offer about a month ago, The Riverside Press-Enteprise reported. I would have to venture to say that if things are moving, it's moving at a very, very slow pace," the tribe's chairman, Deron Marquez, told the paper.

A different group of tribes said to be close to a new deal with the state. The group includes the Pala Band of Mission Indians, the United Auburn Indian Community, the Rumsey Band of Wintun Indians, the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians and the Pauma Band of Mission Indians. The Lytton Band of Pomo Indians, which does not have a compact, is also said to be close to a deal.

According to recent reports, the deal would let tribes break the 2,000-per tribe limit on slot machines in exchange for greater financial concessions. Concepts floated about include a $1 billion-$2 billion bond deal or fees, possibly as high as $25,000, for each machine.

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State, some tribes near deal (The Riverside Press-Enterprise 6/3)
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