Lawmakers oppose exclusivity in tribal compact

Thursday, October 21, 2004  

Provisions in a gaming compact barring new tribal casinos and limiting other gaming in the Kansas City area are being opposed by local lawmakers and officials.

State Sen. Chris Steineger, a Democrat, says he supports the casino sought by the Kickapoo Tribe and the Sac and Fox Tribe. But he doesn't like the exclusivity clause because it would stop the Delaware Tribe of Oklahoma from opening a casino in his district.

Rep. Ray Cox, a Republican, represents the city where the Delawares want to build. He also opposes the exclusivity provision.

Bonner Springs Mayor Clausie Smith plans to lobby lawmakers and state officials against the exclusivity clause. She supports the Delaware casino.

Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (D) will not negotiate with out-of-state tribes, her chief counsel said. She signed the Kickapoo/Sac and Fox compact for the state's first urban casino.

The Joint Committee on State-Tribal Affairs began hearings into the compact yesterday. Representatives of the Delaware Tribe are scheduled to testify today.

Get the Story:
State accord casts doubt on casino plans (The Basehor Sentinel 10/21)
Legislators examine Wyco casino proposal Legislators examine Wyco casino proposal (The Kansas City Star 10/21)
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