Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe waits for approval of gaming deal

Wednesday, April 10, 2013  

The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts is still waiting for state lawmakers to approve its Class III gaming compact.

The tribe negotiated a new compact with Gov. Deval Patrick (D) after the first one was rejected by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The parties worked with the agency in hopes of avoiding another negative decision.

In addition to the compact, the tribe is waiting for the BIA to approve its land-into-trust application. A decision is expected this spring but the delays have led the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to consider non-Indian bids for the southeastern part of the state.

The commission will meet April 18 and could vote on the matter.

Get the Story:
Patrick stands firm on backing tribe casino (The Cape Cod Times 4/10)

Governor urges wait for Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe casino bid (4/8)