Debate surrounds Mashpee Wampanoag casino

Wednesday, July 11, 2007  

Politicians in Massachusetts have differing views about a casino for the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.

Daniel O'Connell, the chairman of a gaming task force created by Gov. Deval Patrick (D), says a Class III casino needs legislative approval. But Senate President Therese Murray (D), who is open to casinos, says the governor could do it without legislative action.

The tribe asked a University of Michigan law professor for an opinion on the issue. Richard Primus concluded that the governor could sign a compact without legislative approval.

In some sates, lawmakers play a role in the compact process. It's a new issue for Massachusetts, where Class III gaming is not yet legal.

Get the Story:
Who's holding the casino card? (The Cape Cod Times 7/11)