With federal recognition only a month away and state officials considering proposal to legalize gaming, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts is considering possible sites for a casino.
The tribe is due to become recognized at the end of March. After a 90-day public comment period, the tribe hopes to buy some land, a spokesperson said. If that happens, the tribe could seek to open a casino on the land. As newly recognized, the tribe would qualify for an exception under Section 20 of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Gov. Deval Patrick (D) is launching a task force to study gaming. That would open similar types of gaming to the Mashpees and the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe, which is already recognized. Get the Story: