Concerns expressed over Oklahoma gaming pact

Wednesday, August 25, 2004  

Oklahoma voters will go to the polls in November to decide whether to approve certain electronic games.

State Question 712 allows tribes the ability to offer casino machines that may or may not be Class III. In exchange, tribes would share a percentage, capped at 6 percent on electronic machines and 10 percent on card games, with the state.

But since the compact doesn't offer exclusivity for electronic games -- certain race tracks will be allowed to operate them -- some question whether the federal government will approve the agreement.

Oklahoma's chief compact negotiator says the Bureau of Indian Affairs has seen the proposal and hasn't raised questions. Finance Director Scott Meacham said the National Indian Gaming Commission supports the agreement.

Get the Story:
Gaming backers say state question protects tribes (The Daily Oklahoman 8/24)
pwpwd