The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts is moving forward with plans for a casino even though Class III gaming is not yet legal in the state.
The tribe hopes that will change under legislation proposed by Gov. Deval Patrick (D) that would authorize commercial gaming. The tribe would then be able to negotiate a Class III compact.
If that doesn't happen, the tribe plans to offer Class II machines. But new regulations from the National Indian Gaming Commission could limit the types of games that are legal without a Class III compact. The rules require Class II games to play slower than Class III games like slot machines.
Get the Story:Plan would curb Mashpee’s bingo slots option (The Boston Herald 11/9) Federal Register Notices:
Classification Standards for Bingo, Lotto, Other Games Similar to Bingo, Pull Tabs and Instant Bingo as Class II Gaming When Played Through an Electronic Medium Using "Electronic, Computer, or Other Technologic Aids'" (October 24, 2007)
Technical Standards for Electronic, Computer, or Other Technologic Aids Used in the Play of Class II Games (October 24, 2007)
Definition for Electronic or Electromechanical Facsimile (October 24, 2007)
Minimum Internal Control Standards for Class II Gaming (October 24, 2007)
