The Shinnecock Nation of New York is on the path to federal recognition and it looks like a casino won't be far behind.

The tribe has partnered with a group called Gateway Casino Resorts to lobby state officials, members of Congress and the Obama administration on a casino. So far, over $1.3 million in campaign contributions and lobbying fees have been spent on the effort, according to The New York Daily News.

"We're looking to build a world-class facility," tribal trustee Fred Bass told the Daily News.

The ideal casino location appears to be the Belmont Park Raceway on Long Island. The tribe would need the land placed in trust to operate an Indian gaming facility there.

The tribe is due to receive final approval of its federal recognition petition by the middle of this year.

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Shinnecock Indians, Gateway Casino Resorts team up in bid for Long Island casino (The New York Daily News 2/28)