The Massachusetts Senate again failed to vote on a Class III gaming compact for the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.
The latest delay wasn't explained but some lawmakers from the southeastern part of the state, where the casino would be located, have objected to the compact. A vote is expected tomorrow -- the state's gaming law requires approval by July 31. Separately, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs held a hearing on the $500 million project. "The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe has a strong tradition of careful use of natural resources," Chairman Cedric Cromwell said, The Cape Cod Times reported. Once the compact is approved, it can be sent to the Bureau of Indian Affairs for review. Gov. Deval Patrick (D) has hired Holland & Knight, a law and lobbying firm with tribal gaming clients, to lobby the Obama administration for approval. The firm, which provided legal services to Patrick during compact negotiations, will also lobby for the tribe's land-into-trust application. Get the Story: