Tribes fight NIGC's Class II machine proposal

Monday, January 29, 2007  

Tribes across the nation, but particularly those in states without a gaming compact, are fighting the National Indian Gaming Commission's proposed Class II regulations and standards.

Tribes like the Poarch Band of Creek Indians of Alabama and the Santee Sioux Tribe of Nebraska say the changes would wreck their economies. The tribes would have to stop offering certain electronic machines if the rules are adopted.

An independent analysis commissioned by the NIGC supports the tribal views. The Analysis Group said the changes would cost tribes in 10 states $150 million annually and lead to closures or partial closures of casinos.

Even tribes in states where Class III gaming is legal have concerns. Since Class II machines can be operated without state control, these tribes fear they will lose their bargaining powers.

Comments on the proposal are being accepted until January 31.

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Indian tribes oppose NIGC bid to change some gaming machines (AP 1/28)