The Fire Rock Navajo Casino in New Mexico. Photo from Facebook
The Navajo Nation signed a Class III gaming compact that was approved by lawmakers in New Mexico last week. President Ben Shelly signed the agreement during an impromptu ceremony on Tuesday, his office said in a press release. After Gov. Susana Martinez (R) adds her name, the compact can be sent to the Bureau of Indian Affairs for review. “The Navajo Nation extends thanks to the tribes and pueblos that stood with us to get this compact passed,” Shelly said in a press release, referring to other tribes in New Mexico that signed new compacts and others that supported it. “By working together, we passed a historic gaming compact that will continue to impact our tribal economies for the next 22 years," Shelly said. The tribe operates three gaming facilities in New Mexico. According to the Associate Press, they generated nearly $80 million last year. The compact authorizes the tribe to open another facility in six years. Shelly and other officials have said there aren't firm plans for a new casino at this point. Get the Story:
Navajo Nation signs gambling compact with New Mexico (AP 3/25)
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