Indianz.Com Indian Gaming Business Deals

ARCHIVE: 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007

Habematolel Pomo casino deal wins final approval (12/18)

A Class III gaming compact for the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake won passage in the California Senate on Thursday, clearing the way for final approval by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The deal was...

Habematolel Pomo compact headed for passage (12/16)

A Class III gaming compact for the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake is nearing final passage in the California Legislature. The deal passed the Assembly last Thursday by a 68-0 vote. The Senate Governmental Organization...

Editorial: No special session for Seminole compact (12/15)

"Lawmakers are right that it's not the time to call a special legislative session to address gambling issues. But dealing with gambling, as Tallahassee must this coming spring, is long overdue. It's not like gambling...

San Pasqual Band now offers maximum 2,000 slots (11/24)

The San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians of California is finally operating 2,000 slot machines at the Valley View Casino. The tribe signed a Class III gaming compact in 1999 that promised up to 2,000...

Saginaw Chippewa Tribe shares gaming revenues (11/20)

The Saginaw Chippewa Tribe of Michigan shared over $700,000 in gaming revenues with local governments and school districts. The tribe distributes 2 percent of slot machine revenues twice a year. “This is just one way...

Opinion: Say no to gaming deal for Seminole Tribe (11/16)

"Florida House Speaker Larry Cretul and Senate President Jeff Atwater are right about the governor's proposed Seminole gaming compact. It's a bad deal for Florida. The compact is intended to enhance state revenues with annual...

Arizona tribes see another dip in gaming revenue (11/04)

Arizona tribes saw a 14 percent drop in gaming revenues in the last quarter, the second-worst quarter since 1993 and seventh quarterly decline in a row. "We are still not out of this," Sheila...

Republicans reject compact with Seminole Tribe (11/03)

Top Republican lawmakers said the proposed Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe won't be approved by the Florida Legislature. Republicans say the deal cuts out non-Indian racetracks. Some of them want voters to...

Editorial: Grandstanding on Seminole casino deal (11/02)

"Florida House Speaker Larry Cretul's call for the federal government to fine or shut down games at the Seminole Indians' casinos is highly unorthodox and a bit of a grandstand play. In seeking federal intervention,...

Florida governor hopeful for Seminole compact (10/27)

Gov. Charlie Crist (R) remains hopeful that the Florida Legislature will approve a Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe. Crist was the first governor in the state's history to come to the table...

Oklahoma tribes share over $105M in revenues (10/26)

Oklahoma tribes shared over $105 million in gaming revenues with the state during fiscal year 2009, The Muskogee Phoenix reports. The payments represented an increase of 12.7 percent from fiscal year 2008. The numbers have...

Column: Seminole Class III gaming here to stay (10/26)

"Contradiction has colored Florida gambling policy since the 1940s, when scores of South Florida casinos openly flouted state law. Slots jangled. Blackjack flourished. Floozies hung on arms of big bettors. Local cops moonlighted as casino...

Arizona tribes see another dip in casino revenues (10/23)

Revenue at tribal casinos fell 9.9 percent in fiscal year that ended June 30, the Arizona Department of Gaming reported. Tribes shared $86.5 million with the state in fiscal year 2009. That's lower than the...

Column: Seminole Tribe holds cards in gaming war (10/23)

"Welcome to the Fourth Seminole War, which kicked off this week when the Florida Legislature asked for federal help in stopping casino games on the tribe's reservations. There's some sorry history here in Florida's efforts...

Seminole Tribe defends legality of Class III games (10/22)

The Seminole Tribe of Florida is defending its Class III games amid a new attack by a key lawmaker. The tribe offers slot machines and table games at its seven Hard Rock casinos. The games...

Column: NIGC to take a 'look' at Seminole gaming (10/22)

"If the state and the Seminoles fail to hammer out a compromise on a gambling compact, what will federal authorities do? That was the multi-million dollar question hanging over the annual Florida Gaming Summit on...

NIGC urged to take action against Seminole Tribe (10/21)

Florida House Speaker Larry Cretul is asking the National Indian Gaming Commission to take action against the Seminole Tribe. A letter to NIGC Acting Chair George Skibine says the tribe is engaging in Class III...

Seminole gaming executive seeks action on deal (10/21)

The Seminole Tribe is getting tired of waiting for the Florida Legislature to approve a Class III gaming compact, a top executive said. James F. Allen, the chief executive officer of gaming operations for the...

Seminole Tribe still waiting on gaming compact (10/19)

After two rounds of negotiations, the Seminole Tribe is still waiting for the Florida Legislature to approve a Class III gaming compact. The tribe reached a deal with Gov. Charlie Crist (R) by an August...

Big Sandy Band wins 1,650 slot machines (10/07)

The Big Sandy Rancheria Band of Western Mono Indians received the largest number of slot machine licenses in the California Gambling Control Commission draw on Monday. The tribe was awarded 1,650 licenses. With 350 slots...

California tribes to add 3,548 slot machines (10/06)

The California Gambling Control Commission awarded 3,548 slot machine licenses to 11 tribes on Monday. The Cabazon Band of Mission Indians, the Big Sandy Band of Western Mono Indians, the Colusa Indian Community, the...

California tribes in line for more slot machines (10/05)

The California Gambling Control Commission is issuing licenses for slot machines as part of a tribal-compact lawsuit. A federal judge ordered the agency to issue up to 10,549 new licenses. But it appears only a...

California agency to issue more slot licenses (10/02)

The California Gambling Control Commission has been ordered to issue licenses for up to 10,549 slot machines as part of a tribal compact lawsuit. Tribes will have to pay $1,250 for each slot license. The...

Oregon group drops tribal casino smoking bid (10/01)

The American Lung Association of Oregon has dropped an effort to force tribal casinos to ban smoking. An attorney wrote Gov. Ted Kulongoski (D) on behalf of the group last month to push for the...

Pokagon Band to share $6.2M in casino funds (10/01)

The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians of Michigan will share $6.2 million in gaming revenues this year, an increase from last year. The tribe shares 2 percent of annual net electronic gaming revenues with local...

Florida Gaming Summit set at Seminole casino (09/29)

The fifth annual Florida Gaming Summit takes place October 19-20 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida. Topics of discussion include the controversial Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe....

Editorial: Negotiate deal for Shinnecock casino (09/29)

"The construction of a casino is far from the only issue in the Shinnecock Indian Nation's long quest for federal recognition. But it may be the most complex one, and the one with the most...

Editorial: Milking the Seminole Tribe casino cow (09/24)

"Gov. Crist wants a special session to get the Legislature to ratify a new gambling deal with the Seminole Tribe. Under the terms of the proposed compact, the state would get a nice cut of...

Pauma Band sues to invalidate gaming compact (09/24)

The Pauma Band of Luiseño Indians is accusing California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) of tricking the tribe into signing a gaming compact. The 2004 agreement allowed the tribe to operate more slot machines in exchange...

Lawmaker won't call hearing on Seminole deal (09/23)

A key lawmaker won't be calling a hearing on a Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The hearing was scheduled for October 5. But Rep. Bill Galvano (R), who chairs the...

Opinion: Smoking, sovereignty at tribal casinos (09/23)

"When you pull up to the gas pumps at the Grand Ronde Station outside the Spirit Mountain Casino, there's a surprise: You can pump your own gas. This exception to Oregon's ban on self service...

Florida governor defends Seminole gaming pact (09/22)

Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (R) is defending a Class III gaming compact he signed with the Seminole Tribe, citing the increased payments that will be made to the state. Crist's top aide said the tribe...

Oklahoma tribes sharing more gaming revenues (09/22)

Oklahoma tribes are sharing more gaming revenues with the state, according to the Office of State Finance. In fiscal year 2009, tribes contributed $106 million to the state, a record amount. The growth came despite...

Lawmaker urges rejection of Seminole compact (09/21)

A key lawmaker is recommending the Florida Legislature reject a proposed Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe. Rep. Bill Galvano (R) said the state gives up too much in the deal. He...

Oregon group targets smoking at tribal casinos (09/18)

The American Lung Association of Oregon is asking Gov. Ted Kulongoski (D) to renegotiate the tribal-state compact to ban smoking at Indian gaming facilities. The state's indoor smoking ban went into effect on June 1....

Editorial: More voices on Nottawaseppi board (09/16)

"Last month's opening of FireKeepers Casino created the potential for new revenue for area governments - and possible conflict about how that money would be disbursed. But at least one political issue has been resolved...

Nottawaseppi Huron Band amends casino deal (09/15)

The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi Indians Indians signed an amended Class III gaming compact with Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm (D). The new agreement lowers the tribe's revenue-sharing rate. In 2009 and 2010, the...

Editorial: Don't rush to approve Seminole deal (09/14)

"The president of Florida’s Senate showed this week that deliberation and due diligence are still valued by some leaders of state government. Jeff Atwater, a Republican from Palm Beach County, e-mailed senators on Thursday, advising...

Top lawmaker voices doubts on Seminole deal (09/11)

It looks like the Seminole Tribe of Florida might have to wait for legislative approval of its Class III gaming compact. The tribe and Gov. Gov. Charlie Crist (R) met an August 31 deadline to...

Editorial: Tweak the Seminole gaming compact (09/09)

"There is a school of thought that says the tentative pact on Florida casino gambling is worth passing because it means so many jobs. Although we have not seen exactly how many jobs, there are...

Editorial: Compromise on Seminole gaming deal (09/08)

"The good news is that Gov. Charlie Crist and the Seminole Tribe beat the clock in ratifying a new gambling compact. The bad news is that the compact needs work — lots of it —...

Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake reach compact (09/07)

The Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake signed a Class III gaming compact with California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R). The deal requires the tribe to share 15 percent of net revenues with the state. It also...

Editorial: Deck stacked against Florida on gaming (09/07)

"The deck is stacked against Florida in its efforts to get a fair deal from Seminole Indian casinos. Yet that's no reason for the Legislature to fold and blindly accept a proposed pact with...

Editorial: Expand gaming for Eastern Cherokees (09/04)

"Having a new resident in North Carolina’s Executive Mansion has improved the prospects of an expansion of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ casino. The Asheville Citizen-Times recently reported that Gov. Bev Perdue hasn’t ruled...

Mashantucket Tribe's tax at casino under review (09/04)

Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal is reviewing a casino sales tax being imposed by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. Blumenthal is concerned about a 1 percent tax the tribe is adding to the sale of...

The Economist: Florida makes deal for Indian gold (09/04)

"Charlie Crist, Florida’s governor, first tried to make a gambling pact with the Seminole tribe in late 2007. It seemed a good idea if some of the money they took in from their seven...

Non-Indian racetracks to fight Seminole gaming (09/03)

Non-Indian racetracks in Florida are opposing a Class III gaming compact for the Seminole Tribe. The tracks say the state gave up too much in the deal. They are concerned about provisions that give the...

Seminole gaming compact a thorny political issue (09/02)

A Class III gaming compact for the Seminole Tribe is about more than gaming in the state of Florida. Nearly all of the major players in the debate have bigger political aspirations. Gov. Charlie Crist...

North Carolina governor open to new gaming deal (09/01)

North Carolina Gov. Bev Perdue (D) said she is open to a new Class III gaming compact with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. “I am going to have a conversation. I don't know what...

Blog: New wrinkles in compact with Seminole Tribe (09/01)

"My first reaction to reading the latest gambling agreement between the Seminoles and Governor Charlie Crist: Uh-oh. Here we go again. Just like the 2007 original, this version gives too much to the Seminoles,...

Seminole Tribe beats deadline on gaming compact (09/01)

The Seminole Tribe and Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (R) beat a deadline to sign a new Class III gaming compact on Monday. The deal authorizes the tribe to offer slot machines and table games...

Oklahoma racetrack benefits from tribal revenues (08/31)

A non-Indian racetrack in Oklahoma gets at least $2 million a year in tribal gaming revenues for not operating electronic slot machines. The Fair Meadows Racetrack in Tulsa could install the machines under a...

Editorial: Take more revenues from tribal gaming (08/31)

"We've never been a fan of the casinos as a source of revenue for the state, but it's hard to object when the state has its own round-the-clock lotteries and its multiple scratch-off games. Unfortunately,...

California tribes battle state over slot machines (08/31)

Four tribes in California have won court decisions that allow them to offer more slot machines at their casinos but Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) is refusing to comply. The Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians, the...

Column: Ping-pong on Seminole gaming compact (08/31)

"In the short term, not much will change if a revised Seminole gambling compact is announced Monday, the Legislature's deadline for a deal. There'll still be blackjack and other table games running at the...

New Mexico tribal gaming revenues on decline (08/27)

Gamblers in New Mexico are spending less at tribal casinos, the Gaming Control Board said reported. The 14 tribes with casinos don't disclose their revenues. But the "net win" at tribal facilities fell 1.2 percent...

Seminole Tribe continues compact negotiations (08/27)

The Seminole Tribe and is moving closer to a Class III gaming compact with the state of Florida, a council member said. The tribe, negotiators for Gov. Charlie Crist (R) and lawmakers have been...

Connecticut tribes pay $25M in gaming dispute (08/27)

The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the Mohegan Tribe agreed to pay the state of Connecticut $25 million to settle a gaming dispute. The tribes offered a gaming promotion that allowed patrons to exchange coupons...

Seminole Tribe faces deadline on gaming deal (08/26)

The Seminole Tribe and Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (R) are reportedly close to an agreement for a Class III gaming compact. The tribe and Crist face an August 31 to reach a deal. Prior news...

Wisconsin gaming revenues expected to drop (08/24)

Revenues at tribal casinos in Wisconsin are expected to fall for the first time in 16 years. Analysts predict a 4.8 percent decline in revenues this year. But they foresee a 3 percent gain...

Editorial: Compromise on Seminole gaming (08/17)

"It should have been an amicable arrangement that provides enough benefits to keep both the state of Florida and the Seminole Tribe contented. But the two sides are still far apart on a gaming compact,...

Special session possible on Seminole gaming (08/13)

Rep. Larry Cretul (R), the Speaker of the Florida House, said lawmakers might meet in a special session to discuss a Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe. Cretul said the session would be...

Pokagon Band shares $6.2M with community (08/13)

The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians of Michigan is sharing $6.2 million in gaming revenues with local communities. The tribe contributes 2 percent of slot machine revenues from the Four Winds Casino to a special...

Blog: Deadline looms on Seminole gaming deal (08/06)

The Seminole Tribe faces an August 31 deadline to reach a Class III gaming compact with the state of Florida. But what happens to the tribe's Class III games if the deadline passes without an...

Arizona tribes share $23.5M in casino revenues (08/05)

Arizona's tribes shared $23.5 million in gaming revenues with the state during the second quarter of the year. Of the amount, $11.7 million went to education, $5.9 million went to emergency-room service, $2.1 million...

Seminole Tribe won't accept terms of compact (08/05)

The Seminole Tribe won't accept the terms of a compact proposed by the Florida Legislature, an attorney said. The deal forces the tribe to share revenues without a guarantee of exclusivity for Class III games....

Arizona tribes report decline in gaming revenues (08/04)

Revenues at tribal casinos fell for a second time this year, the Arizona Department of Gaming reported. Tribes contributed slightly more than $23.5 million in the second quarter of the year. That's 9.4 percent less...

Seminole Tribe 'optimistic' on gaming compact (08/03)

The Seminole Tribe is "very optimistic" it will reach a Class III gaming compact with the state of Florida, a spokesperson said. “They have been trying for 20 years now and this is farthest they’ve...

Blog: Seminole Tribe seeks changes to compact (07/31)

"With an Aug. 31 deadline looming, the Seminole tribe is seeking key concessions before it will sign a big-dollar gambling deal with the state, casting uncertainty over the late-hour negotiations. Atop the tribe's priority list:...

Nottawaseppi Huron Band set for new compact (07/29)

The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi Indians expects to sign a revised Class III gaming compact with state of Michigan within 60 days, an attorney for Gov. Jennifer Granholm (D) said. The initial compact was...

Exclusivity at issue in Seminole compact talks (07/29)

The Seminole Tribe needs "exclusivity" in its Class III gaming compact with the state, an attorney said. A proposed compact requires the tribe to share revenues from slot machines and table games. The tribe wants...

Compact negotiations with Seminole Tribe on hold (07/28)

The Seminole Tribe and Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (R) have only met once to discuss a Class III compact, The Miami Herald reports. The talks were authorized by the Florida Legislature. But both sides are...

Opinion: End tribal gaming monopoly in Arizona (07/27)

"We've completed a 2009 legislative session which, though dominated by work on a balanced state budget, failed to produce one. Or, if you prefer, failed to produce one that Gov. Jan Brewer would sign. This...

Editorial: Connecticut giving up gaming money (07/27)

"While Republican Gov. M. Jodi Rell and Democratic legislative leaders argued for months about how to raise money for a state budget, millions owed the state by two Indian casinos is sitting around uncollected. Sixteen...

Blog: Seminole Tribe asks for new gaming deal (07/23)

"Reports that the Seminole Tribe is not happy with the structure of a gambling compact set up by the Florida Legislature is not producing much sympathy from State Rep. Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton. Galvano told the...

Editorial: Tribal gaming paying off in Oklahoma (07/23)

"Not quite five years since the election where Oklahoma voters approved a lottery and the expansion of tribal gaming, here are a few things we know: →Gaming has been a big, big winner for Oklahoma’s...

Racetracks in Arizona want approval for casinos (07/21)

Non-Indian racetracks in Arizona are launching a campaign to legalize commercial gaming. The tracks say "racinos" will help resolve the state's budget deficit. They also cite a threat from the off-reservation casino sought by the...

Connecticut towns want more casino money (07/20)

Some communities in Connecticut hope a new report will help them secure a greater share of tribal casino revenues. The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the Mohegan Tribee share 25 percent of slot machine revenues...

Coquille Tribe buys liquor for casino from state (07/16)

The Coquille Tribe buys the liquor for The Mill Casino-Hotel directly from the state of Oregon. The tribal-state compact gives the tribe a substantial discount through the Oregon Liquor Control Commission. Essentially, the tribe pays...

Nottawaseppi Huron Band meets over compact (07/16)

The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi Indians is meeting with the state of Michigan to discuss changes to the tribal-state compact. The tribe reportedly wants to change the provision that affects the Local Revenue...

Coeur d'Alene Tribe shares gaming revenues (07/15)

The Coeur d'Alene Tribe of Idaho shared $1.8 million in gaming revenues with the state. The tribal-state compact requires the tribe to distribute 5 percent of revenues with educational institutions. This year, 15 school districts,...

Seminole Tribe still working on gaming compact (07/14)

The Seminole Tribe and Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (R) have until August 31 to negotiate a Class III gaming compact. The tribe has been seeking a deal for over 20 years. Crist was the first...

Gaming donors give $2.6M to Alabama campaigns (07/09)

Gaming interests in Alabama donated $2.6 million to Alabama politicians and campaigns in 2006, the most of any group. The owner of a dog track and the Poarch Band of Creek Indians were the largest...

Oklahoma tribes share $105M in casino revenues (07/08)

Oklahoma tribes shared about $105 million with the state in fiscal year 2009, an increase of 23 percent from the year prior. Tribe with Class III compacts share between 4 percent and 6 percent of...

Tulalip Tribes propose amendments to compact (07/07)

The Washington State Gambling Commission will hold a hearing on Thursday to discuss proposed amendments in the Class III compact with the Tulalip Tribes. In 1999, the tribe signed the first compact with the state....

Oklahoma tribes share more revenues with state (07/06)

Oklahoma tribes, already leading the Indian gaming industry in terms of growth, are sharing more of their revenues with the state, the Office of State Finance reported. In fiscal year 2009, tribes with Class...

Seminole Tribe in compact talks with governor (07/02)

Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (R) expects to finalize a Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe by August 31, a member of the negotiating team said. The Florida Legislature passed a bill to authorize...

South Dakota tribes out 'millions' over slots (06/25)

South Dakota tribes are losing out on "millions" of dollars because the tribal-state compact limits each to 250 slot machines, state lawmakers were told this month. Tribes have sought to add slot machines to their...

Editorial: Seminole jackpot won't help schools (06/24)

"Twenty-three years ago, proponents sold voters on the Florida Lottery by pledging that revenues generated by state-run gambling would be a boon to public education. But Floridians soon discovered that lottery proceeds often simply replaced...

Nisqually Tribe shares $4M in gaming revenues (06/24)

The Nisqually Tribe of Washington has shared $4 million in gaming revenues since 2001, The Tacoma News Tribune reports. The tribe shares 2 percent of net gaming income from Red Wind Casino with nonprofits. The...

Editorial: Florida gaming expansion a bad bet (06/23)

"Twenty-three years ago, proponents sold voters on the Florida Lottery by pledging that revenues generated by state-run gambling would be a boon to public education. Since the first tickets were sold in 1988, the lottery...

Wisconsin GOP lawmaker wants casino smoking ban (06/22)

A Wisconsin Republican says tribal casinos should ban smoking. The state's ban on smoking in public places goes into effect in July 2010. State Rep. Dean Kaufert (R) said it should include Indian Country. "It's...

Editorial: Gambling on Seminole Tribe casinos (06/19)

"Last month the Legislature showed it couldn't resist the siren song of windfall revenue when it passed a proposed gambling compact between the state and the Seminole tribe. Gov. Charlie Crist, who succumbed long ago,...

Oregon court allows gaming compact lawsuit (06/19)

A group called People Against a Casino Town can challenge the Class III gaming compact for the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians, the Oregon Supreme Court ruled on Thursday. The group...

Records at issue in Flandreau Santee Sioux case (06/16)

The state of South Dakota is asserting executive privilege in a gaming compact lawsuit filed by the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe. The state says records kept by former governor Bill Janklow (R) and his predecessors...

Seminole Tribe faces deadline to sign compact (06/16)

The Seminole Tribe faces an August 31 deadline to sign a Class III gaming compact with the state of Florida. Gov. Charlie Crist (R) signed into law a bill that proposes the terms of the...

Seminole Tribe not commenting on compact talks (06/15)

The Seminole Tribe isn't saying whether it wants to negotiate new terms for a Class III gaming compact but the tribe's lawyer is criticizing the deal. The tribe already operates slot machines and card games...

Seminole Tribe likely to reject compact proposal (06/12)

The Seminole Tribe of Florida probably won't approve the terms of a compact proposed by state lawmakers, the tribe's attorney said. The tribe is concerned about the increased revenue-sharing rate in the new deal, attorney...

South Dakota tribes press state for slot machines (06/10)

The South Dakota Legislature's State-Tribal Relations Committee held a hearing on Tuesday to discuss slot machines. The tribal-state compact limits each tribe to 250 machines. Tribes want to add more machines but have faced opposition...

Schwarzenegger plans appeal in compact lawsuit (06/10)

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) plans to appeal a decision that would allow tribes to add more slot machines to their casinos. The Colusa Indian Community and the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians signed...

California tribes press state for more slot machines (06/08)

At least four tribes are suing the state of California in hopes of adding more slot machines to their casinos. The tribes signed compacts in 1999 that promised them up to 2,000 slot machines. But...

Minnesota governor regrets handling of tribal gaming (06/04)

Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R), who won't seek a third term in office amid rumors of a 2012 presidential run, says he could have done a better job on tribal gaming issues. Pawlenty proposed an...

San Pasqual Band files $550M claim over slot machines (06/02)

The San Pasqual Band of Missions Indians filed a $550 million claim against the state of California in an ongoing slot machine dispute. The tribe signed a Class III gaming compact in 1999. The agreement...

Battle brews over keno proposal in Connecticut (06/02)

Connecticut's two federally recognized tribes are staying on the sidelines as the state considers a proposal to offer keno. Gov. M. Jodi Rell (R) said keno games could bring in another $60 million to the...

Standing Rock Sioux Tribe renews gaming compact (06/02)

The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe will renew its gaming compact with the state of South Dakota. The tribe and Gov. Mike Rounds (R) will sign the 10-year agreement today. It's the first Rounds renegotiated since...

Saginaw Chippewa Tribe sees drop in revenues (06/01)

The Saginaw Chippewa Tribe of Michigan saw a $5.235 million drop in net slot machine winnings over the last six months. "It wasn't unexpected," Michael Johnson, the tribe's chief financial officer, told The Bay...

Shinnecock Nation ready to negotiate with state (05/28)

With federal recognition on the horizon, the Shinnecock Nation is ready to negotiate with the state of New York over gaming rights. The tribe makes no secret about its desire for a casino. A number...

Nottawaseppi Huron not seeking compact revision (05/25)

The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi Indians is not seeking to revise its Class III gaming compact with Michigan, Chairwoman Laura Spurr said. The tribe agreed to share 2 percent of revenues from the...

Agua Caliente Band looks for 'missing' gaming money (05/22)

The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians is trying to find out where $14 million in tribal gaming money went in California. Tribes contribute a portion of their revenues to the Indian Gaming Special Distribution...

New Mexico tribes report drop in gaming revenues (05/19)

Some tribes in New Mexico reported double-digit drops in gaming revenues for the first quarter of 2009. Ohkay Owingeh, Santa Clara Pueblo and Tesuque Pueblo saw some of the largest drops in net wins from...

Column: A practical compact for Seminole Tribe (05/19)

"I finally got around to dissecting the 105-page gambling bill the Legislature passed earlier this month. I never thought I'd say this, but the proposed compact with the Seminoles is an astonishingly good document....

Editorial: Approve gaming deal for Seminole Tribe (05/18)

"Gov. Charlie Crist should not have to engage in a high-stakes poker game to negotiate a gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe. But the state Legislature dealt him that hand, and he’s forced to play...

Pokagon Band distributes $6.2M in gaming funds (05/13)

The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians was finally able to distribute the first of $6.2 million in gaming revenues to local communities in Michigan. The tribe was holding onto the money from the Four Winds...

Seminole Tribe faces August 31 deadline on compact (05/12)

The Seminole Tribe has until August 31 to accept, reject or offer a counter proposal to a Class III gaming compact approved by the Florida Legislature. Seminole CEO James Allen said the tribe will take...

Florida lawmakers pass bill for Seminole compact (05/11)

The Florida Legislature approved a bill that authorizes a new Class III gaming compact for the Seminole Tribe. The deal preserves slot machines at all seven of the tribe's casinos. But the tribe will have...

Gaming compact for Seminole Tribe up for final vote (05/08)

A Class III gaming compact for the Seminole Tribe faces a final vote in the Florida Legislature today. If approved, it will go to Gov. Charlie Crist (R) for his approval. Tribal leaders must weigh...

Opinions: A new gaming compact for Seminole Tribe (05/08)

The St. Petersburg Times: "Florida has more than enough gambling. Ideally, it would have less. But the compromise the Florida Legislature is expected to vote on today appears to expand gambling in a measured way....

Deal reached over compact for Seminole Tribe (05/07)

Florida lawmakers reached a last-minute deal for a Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe. The deal allows the tribe to keep slot machines, blackjack and other card games at four of its casinos....

Man loses lawsuit over jackpot at Pueblo casino (05/07)

A New Mexico man who won $250,000 at a tribal casino can't sue in state court, the New Mexico Court of Appeals ruled on Tuesday. Cruz Holguin won the jackpot in a random drawing at...

Still no agreement on compact for Seminole Tribe (05/06)

Lawmakers in Florida have yet to reach agreement on a Class III gaming compact for the Seminole Tribe. The House doesn't support blackjack for the tribe but the Senate does. The House also opposes an...

Deadline looms on compact for Seminole Tribe (05/05)

Florida lawmakers have until Friday to agree on a Class III gaming compact for the Seminole Tribe. The House and the Senate are poised to reach a compromise, one lawmaker said. The two chambers have...

Arizona tribes report declines in gaming revenues (05/04)

Arizona tribes saw another drop in gaming revenues in the last quarter, although they appear to have rebounded somewhat. According to the latest report, the tribes shared $22.1 million with the state for the first...

Column: Florida governor pushes for Seminole deal (05/04)

"Governor Charlie Crist has gently but firmly raised the stakes in the debate over gaming, saying Sunday that failure to pass a gambling agreement with the Seminole Indian Tribe of Florida could translate into line...

Editorial: Reject expansion of gaming in Florida (05/01)

"Budget desperation might lead the Legislature to approve the de facto expansion of gambling at Seminole casinos, which now offer high-stakes slots and card games such as blackjack and baccarat. But budget desperation and the...

Lawmakers work on compact for Seminole Tribe (04/30)

Blackjack is emerging as a key issue as lawmakers in Florida try to resolve their differences over a Class III compact with the Seminole Tribe. The House and the Senate agree the tribe should be...

Dispute over Pokagon gaming revenues finally ends (04/29)

The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians can finally distribute over $6.2 million in gaming revenues with the local community. The Michigan tribe agreed to share revenues from the Four Winds Casino with local agencies. But...

Still no deal on compact for Seminole Tribe (04/29)

The Florida Legislature has yet to reach a deal for a Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe but lawmakers won't adjourn on Friday as scheduled. The House wants to limit the tribe to...

Quechan Nation shares $90K in gaming revenues (04/29)

The Quechan Nation shared $90,000 in gaming revenues with the Yuma, Arizona, community. The tribe gave money to four non-profits and two public agencies. “We wanted to be sure that the communities closest to where...

Still no deal on Seminole Tribe's gaming compact (04/28)

The Florida Legislature adjourns on Friday but it doesn't look like lawmakers will reach a deal over Class III gaming for the Seminole Tribe. The House and the Senate passed dramatically different bills affecting the...

Opinion: Seminole gaming deal bad in the long run (04/24)

"Take the money and run, says state Sen. Alex Diaz de la Portilla of Miami. The Seminoles' latest proposed casino-gambling deal, blessed by Gov. Charlie Crist, offers the state a quickie save during these tough...

Florida governor touts new Seminole gaming deal (04/24)

Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (R) said a new Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe means more money for public schools but lawmakers don't seem to be warming to the plan. Under the new...

Seminole Tribe proposes revisions to compact (04/23)

The Seminole Tribe and Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (R) have proposed revisions to the Class III gaming compact that has been the subject of debate. The tribe says it will share $1.1 billion in...

Supreme Court won't hear gaming compact cases (04/23)

The U.S. Supreme Court has declined to hear two gaming compact cases involving tribes in California. The Cachil Dehe Band of Wintun Indians and the Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians each signed compacts in 1999...

Opinions: Smoking ban at Connecticut casinos (04/22)

The New London Day published rival opinions on a controversial bill that would ban smoking at Connecticut's tribal casinos. Lynn Malerba, the vice chairwoman of the Mohegan Tribe, says the bill would infringe on sovereignty...

Rival Seminole gaming compact bill advances (04/22)

The Florida House voted 84-27 on a bill to limit the Seminole Tribe. to slot machines. The bill gives the tribe exclusivity to offer slot machines outside of two counties where they are already legal....

Public hearing on Standing Rock Sioux Tribe compact (04/21)

The South Dakota Gaming Commission held a public hearing on a proposed revision to the Class III gaming compact for the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. The compact is the first to be renegotiated since Gov....

Connecticut tribal casino smoking ban advances (04/21)

Democratic and Republican lawmakers are at odds over a bill that purports to ban smoking at tribal casinos. Democrats say the state can protect the right of workers on reservations. But Republicans say the bill...

County returns gaming funds to Yavapai-Apache Nation (04/21)

The board of supervisors in Yavapai County, Arizona, voted 2-1 on Monday to return $50,000 in gaming funds to the Yavapai-Apache Nation. The tribe shares revenues with local governments under the tribal-state Class III gaming...

Seminole gaming compact bill passes Florida Senate (04/17)

The Florida Senate voted 27-11 on Thursday in favor of a Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe. The deal authorizes slot machines and table games. It calls for the tribe to share an...

Seminole Tribe in quiet negotiations with governor (04/16)

The Seminole Tribe has been "quietly" negotiating a new Class III gaming compact with Gov. Charlie Crist (R), The Palm Beach Post reports. The tribe would reportedly pay more up front to the state in...

Editorial: Seminole compact benefits education (04/10)

"Taking risks, like going double-or-nothing, spending your last $1 bill on a slot machine or picking a certain number when the odds are down, can be uncomfortable and scary. It also sometimes pays off. The...

Lac du Flambeau Band signs new Class III compact (04/09)

The Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians has signed a Class III gaming compact with the state of Wisconsin. The 25-year deal requires the tribe to pay $3.7 million to the state...

Bill for Seminole Class III gaming advances (04/08)

A bill to authorize Class III gaming for the Seminole Tribe advanced in the Florida Senate. The bill authorizes slot machines and table games. The tribe would be required to share revenues with the state....

Economists cite benefits of Seminole gaming (04/07)

Economists working for the Florida Legislature say a Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe will bring in hundreds of millions of dollars to the state. The House version of the compact will bring...

Editorial: First Seminole compact a winning deal (04/06)

"Gov. Charlie Crist made a mistake in 2007 by signing a gambling compact with the Seminole Indian Tribe without legislative approval. But after months of legislative discussion, Crist's deal with the tribe is starting to...

Florida lawmakers take up Seminole gaming bill (04/03)

The House Select Committee on Seminole Indian Compact Review took up a bill to authorize a Class III gaming compact for the Seminole Tribe today. The bill allows slot machines at the tribe's casinos. Card...

Site for Pinoleville Band's casino an unknown (03/30)

The Pinoleville Band of Pomo Indians cleared a major step by signing a gaming compact with California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) last week but there are still some hurdles to clear before the tribe opens...

Florida lawmakers clash on Seminole compact (03/25)

Lawmakers in Florida are at odds over Class III gaming for the Seminole Tribe. A bill in the state Senate affirms the tribe's rights to offer all forms of Class III gaming, including slot machines...

Editorial: A sucker's bet on Seminole compact (03/24)

"In a cynical attempt for new revenue that avoids raising taxes, some in Tallahassee—led by Gov. Charlie Crist and certain legislators—are banking on making Floridians suckers to help balance the state’s $6 billion budget deficit....

Pinoleville Band announces plans for first casino (03/24)

The Pinoleville Band of Pomo Indians announced plans for a casino after signing a compact with California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R). The tribe plans a casino with up to 900 slot machines. The compact requires...

Editorial: Approve compact with Seminole Tribe (03/20)

" This deal’s straightforward. In negotiations with state government over a gaming compact, Florida’s Seminole Indian Tribe asks for exclusive rights to house-banked card games in exchange for a cut of the profits. Gov. Charlie...

Blog: Republican wants $1M from Seminole gaming (03/19)

"Sen. Dennis Jones, who chairs the Senate’s Regulated Industries Committee, said the Senate is setting a high goal for a retooled Seminole gambling compact: $1 billion in annual income for the state. “This issue has...

Blog: Seminole Tribe defends compact in newsletter (03/17)

Ed. Note: The Seminole Tribe also publishes the Seminole Tribune. "Perhaps part of its seemingly endless PR blitz, the Seminole tribe is deploying yet another tactic: The Seminole Sentinel, a newsletter full of pro-Seminole spin...

Florida committee restricts Seminole compact (03/13)

The Seminole Tribe will lose its card games under a proposed Class III gaming compact under consideration in the Florida Legislature. The tribe has been operating slot machines and card games under a compact it...

Opinion: A better deal with Seminole Tribe (03/11)

"The Tallahassee Democrat voiced editorial support for a compact with the Seminole Tribe of Florida, saying it should win the approval of the Legislature. The South Florida Gaming Coalition agrees with the Democrat that a...

Alabama bill calls for compact with Poarch Band (03/06)

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....

Slim prospects for new Seminole Tribe compact (03/05)

Republican lawmakers in Florida say they probably won't approve a new Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe. Lawmakers said it will be hard to address all the interests at play. They appear to...

Editorial: Approve compact with Seminole Tribe (03/04)

"We used to hunt deer for a living; now we hunt deals for a living," Max B. Osceola Jr. told the Tallahassee Democrat's editorial board Tuesday. He was describing today's premier enterprises of the Seminole...

Turtle Talk: Supreme Court rejects Seminole case (03/03)

"Here is the Court’s order list for today. Seminole’s bad news is on page 3. This was to be expected, though at some point the Court will grant cert on an Indian Gaming Regulatory Act...

Judge rules in Little Traverse casino payment case (02/27)

A judge in Michigan has struck down a formula used to distribute casino payments from the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. Under its Class III gaming compact, the tribe shares 2 percent of...

Opinion: Minnesota tribes can't shoulder state budget (02/26)

"The state of Minnesota has a revenue problem, and Rep. Steve Drazkowski apparently believes the state’s 55,000 Indian citizens should solve it. According to his recent column Rep. Drazkowski thinks Minnesota Indian tribes should renegotiate...

Connecticut bill seeks expanded liquor sales (02/25)

The Connecticut Legislature will debate a bill that allows 24-hour liquor sales at the state's two tribal casinos. Gov. M. Jodi Rell (R) and Republican lawmakers say expanded liquor sales will help the economy. They...

Florida Baptists oppose expansion of gaming (02/25)

The Florida Baptist Convention continues to oppose a Class III gaming compact for the Seminole Tribe. The group told the Florida Legislature's Select Committee on Seminole Indian Compact Review that gaming hurts families. “We ask...

Poll finds support for Seminole Class III compact (02/24)

A poll commissioned by the Seminole Tribe finds voters in Florida in favor of Class III gaming. Based on a survey of 800 registered voters, 71 percent support the tribe's gaming compact with the state....

New Mexico tribes saw slight growth in gaming (02/23)

Tribes in New Mexico saw a slight increase in slot machine revenues last year, according to the state's Gaming Control Board. The "net win" at tribal casinos reached $710,191,501 in 2008, up from $700,330,214 in...

Editorial: State loses battle on Seminole compact (02/23)

"It's unfortunate Gov. Charlie Crist didn't possess the steely resolve of former governors Lawton Chiles and Jeb Bush when it came to combating efforts by the Seminole Tribe to turn Florida into a casino-gambling state....

Turtle Talk: Negotiate new compacts in Michigan (02/23)

"The success — shocking and aweing (surely to the MichGO plaintiffs — :) ) — of the Gun Lake Band in getting their Class III gaming compact through the Michigan Senate (controlled by Republicans) and...

Opinion: Negotiate new compacts in Minnesota (02/20)

"As we face an expected $7 billion state budget deficit, many gambling proposals are being introduced — from installing gaming machines in bars or at the Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport, to legalizing sports betting around the...

Poll shows Florida voters back Seminole compact (02/20)

A majority of Florida voters support a Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe, according to a new poll. Quinnipiac University surveyed 1,000 voters and found that 63 percent want state lawmakers to approve...

Editorial: The right deal for Gun Lake casino (02/19)

"The state Legislature's hand was forced after the U.S. Supreme Court gave a big win to the Gun Lake band of Pottawatomi Indians in the tribe's push to build an Allegan County casino. The state...

Massachusetts governor won't discuss compact (02/18)

Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick (D) won't say whether he will negotiate a Class III gaming compact with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe. Patrick previously said he won't negotiate until the tribe has land in trust. The...

Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe seeks Class III compact (02/16)

The new leader of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe will ask Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick (D) to negotiate a Class III gaming compact. Chairman Cedric Cromwell, who was elected last Sunday, hopes to meet the governor...

Turtle Talk: Supreme Court petition in gaming case (02/13)

"Ah, Rule 19! Here is California’s cert petition — california-petition-for-cert Just so everyone knows, I called this YEARS ago! See my “The Comparative Rights of Indispensable Sovereigns.” :) Questions Presented (from the cert petition): In...

Debate continues on Seminole Tribe's gaming compact (02/13)

Lawmakers in Florida continued a series of hearings on a Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe. On Thursday, non-Indians got their say. The horse racing industry said the compact will lead to the...

San Carlos Apache Tribe makes layoffs at casino (02/12)

The San Carlos Apache Tribe of Arizona is laying off employees and cutting services at its casino. The Apache Gold Casino Resort will lose 9 percent of its workforce, or about 45 employees. The golf...

Lawmakers approve compact for Gun Lake casino (02/12)

The Michigan Senate approved a Class III gaming compact with the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians, also known as the Gun Lake Tribe. The deal calls for the state to receive 8 percent of the...

Seminole Tribe weighs $1B casino expansion (02/05)

The Seminole Tribe is weighing a $1 billion expansion of its casino in Tampa, Florida. The tribe envisions a bigger gaming floor, more hotel rooms, additional meeting space, a music venue and new restaurants at...

Editorial: Seminole Tribe's big promises on gaming (02/04)

"This week Florida’s Seminole Tribe upped the ante on a gambling compact with the state by promising very big numbers in job creation, economic development and state revenue. Talk about temptation during a recession. Rep....

Seminole Tribe makes case for gaming compact (02/03)

The Seminole Tribe offered the state of Florida tens of thousands of new jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars in revenues but a top Republican said lawmakers want to negotiate a new Class...

Gaming opponents in Michigan turn focus to compact (01/29)

Having lost all their court cases, opponents of the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians hope to block the tribe from a Class III gaming compact with the state of Michigan. As the litigation was...

Arizona tribes see big drop in gaming revenues (01/29)

Arizona tribes saw a 16 percent drop in gaming revenues in the last quarter of 2008, according to figures released by the Arizona Department of Gaming on Wednesday. Tribes don't report figures for the 22...

Supreme Court urged to reject Seminole compact case (01/27)

Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum submitted a response in Seminole Tribe v. Florida House of Representatives, urging the U.S. Supreme Court not to accept a gaming compact case. The Seminole Tribe is asking the high...

Column: GOP hypocrisy in Seminole gaming fight (01/26)

"Charlie Crist had it right when he inked a deal with the Seminoles to cut taxpayers in on the tribe's gambling profits. The casinos, after all, were already here, separating millions of willing gamblers from...

Column: Seminole gaming booty very tempting (01/23)

"Somewhere in a netherworld between legal and illegal, they're playing blackjack. The Seminoles are dealing, and throngs of players are clamoring to play card games approved by the National Indian Gaming Commission, declared illegal by...

Judge dismisses Buena Vista compact lawsuit (01/15)

A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit that challenged the Class III gaming compact for the Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians of California. Amador County sued the Interior Department, alleging the compact violated the Indian...

Editorial: 'Careless' compact with Seminole Tribe (01/14)

"The Florida Legislature concludes this week its special session called to balance the state budget, wisely rejecting new gambling revenue as a means of closing the 2008-2009 budget deficit. Nevertheless, citizens concerned about the detrimental...

Editorial: Debating Seminole gaming in Florida (01/12)

"Should the state of Florida approve Vegas-style slots, blackjack and other house-banked card games that the Seminole Tribe began offering in November at its casinos in Tampa and Immokalee? For the purpose of public discussion,...

Advertisement