The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe praised the passage of H.3702, a bill that legalizes full-scale gaming in Massachusetts.

"We look forward to the next steps in the process, including passage of a final bill and compact negotiations with the governor," Chairman Cedric Cromwell said in a statement, The Cape Cod Times reported. "We're excited to start creating jobs, providing revenue and enhancing travel and tourism for Southeastern Massachusetts, the commonwealth and the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe as soon as possible."

The bill authorizes three casinos in different regions of the state. Region C -- the southeastern part -- is reserved for "a federally recognized tribe."

The bill provides $5 million for Gov. Deval Patrick (D), who supports gaming, to negotiate a compact for the Region C casino. If the process takes more than one year, or doesn't appear to be moving forward within a year, bids can be entertained for the region.

The bill has been interpreted to limit the state to one compact. The Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe has said it's interested in a casino.

The Massachusetts Senate's version of the bill that was approved yesterday differs from the one approved by the House. Lawmakers expect to reach a compromise soon.

Get the Story:
Quick compromise expected after Senate passes casino bill (The Cape Cod Times 10/14)
Casinos roll forward (The Worcester Telegram & Gazette 10/14)
Massachusetts Senate approves gaming bill (AP 10/13)

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