The Bureau of Indian Affairs has allowed a Class III gaming compact for five New Mexico tribes to take effect.
The BIA raised concerns about revenue sharing provisions, the Associated Press reported. But Assistant Secretary Kevin Washburn let the compact go into effect to the extent its provisions are consistent with the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.
The agreement applies to the Navajo Nation, the Jicarilla Apache Nation,
the Mescalero Apache
Nation, Acoma Pueblo and Jemez Pueblo. Four tribes already operate casinos -- Jemez plans to open its first Class II facility with the agreement.
The compact calls for revenue sharing rates between 8.5 percent to 9.5 percent, which is higher than the 8 percent cap in an existing agreement. The deal runs for 22 years.
Get the Story:
Approval given for gambling compacts with New Mexico tribes
(AP 6/10)
Relevant Documents:
BIA Deemed Approved Letter (June 9, 2015)
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