The Yakama Nation of Washington has been issued a notice of violation (NOV) by the National Indian Gaming Commission.
In December 2008, the tribe distributed more than $20 million in casino revenues to its members. The one-time payment of $2,000 was described as an economic "stimulus" benefit. But federal approval for the plan didn't come until February 2009, the NIGC said. Furthermore, distribution of the money was not a "legitimate" use of gaming revenues, according to the NOV. The tribe faces up to $25,000 per day in fines for violating the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Get the Story: