New York Gov. George Pataki (R) on Monday called for the approval of two more casinos in the Catskills region, and is expected to announce settlements with two out-of-state tries.

In the wake of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, state lawmakers approved three casinos in the Catskills. Pataki pitched casinos as a way to help the state out of its budget crisis. Three years later, no casinos have been built but the budget problems still exist.

The state has reached deals to allow the Cayuga Nation of New York and the Seneca-Cayuga Tribe of Oklahoma to build in the Catskills. The St. Regis Mohawk Tribe is building the third casino and is the closest to completion.

Pataki is now poised to announce settlements with two tribes from Wisconsin, The Albany Times-Union reports. The Oneida Nation and the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians have land claims in the state.

The move is sure to anger the Oneida Nation of New York, which has expressed interest in the Catskills. The tribe is opposed to out-of-state tribes asserting rights and has mounted an ad campaign against the Seneca-Cayugas.

Get the Story:
Pataki Seeks to Expand Indian Casinos in Catskills (The New York Times 12/7)
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Pataki raises stakes in his casino plans (The Albany Times-Union 12/7)
Pataki wants more casinos built (Ottaway News Service 12/7)