Alabama bill calls for compact with Poarch Band

Friday, March 6, 2009  

A bill introduced in Alabama requires the state to negotiate a Class III gaming compact with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.

The bill requires the governor to propose an agreement by January 1, 2014. The tribe would not be required to accept the compact.

Rep. Marcel Black (D), the sponsor of the bill, said the compact would not authorize table games. He said it would allow for revenue-sharing with the state.

The state has refused to negotiate a compact for more than a decade. The tribe has turned to the Interior Department but no action has been taken to authorize Class III games.

The bill also authorizes 14 bingo halls throughout the state that would be heavily taxed.

Get the Story:
Bills would OK electronic bingo in 9 Ala. counties (AP 3/6)
Alabama representative proposes 14 gambling centers throughout state (The Birmingham News 3/6)