The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts is ready to make a push for gaming once it receives federal recognition.
In advance of receiving the final decision later today, tribal leaders have met with the staff of Gov. Deval Patrick (D) to discuss a Class III gaming compact. The tribe also wants to buy more land for a potential casino.
The tribe owns land on Cape Cod but doesn't want to build a casino there. A spokesperson said the tribe could conceivably have lands placed in trust within 50 miles of its headquarters in Mashpee.
As a newly recognized tribe, the Mashpees would qualify for an exception under Section 20 of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.
Get the Story:Mashpee tribe vows drive to build off-Cape casino (The Cape Cod Times 2/15)
Wampanoag recognition to spark casino push (The New Bedford Standard-Times 2/15)
Mashpee recognition near (The Boston Globe 2/15)