Massachusetts Tribe Looks to Build Casino
BOSTON, Massachusetts – As reported by the Cape Cod Times: "The Aquinnah Wampanoag tribe of Martha's Vineyard will assert a right to build a resort casino under Indian gaming law if Massachusetts legalizes slot machines at the state's four racetracks, the tribe's chairman said.
"Senators overwhelmingly approved the slot machine proposal last fall, and it is widely expected to come up for a vote in the House as early as March.
"Tribal Chairman Donald Widdiss said the Aquinnah Wampanoag, who have hired the Boston lobbying firm of Donoghue, Barrett and Singal, are watching the House debate 'very closely.'
"…The legislation before the House would allow up to 2,000 slot machines at each of the state's four racetracks, including Raynham-Taunton Greyhound Park, Suffolk Downs, Wonderland and Plainville.
"…Under the 1988 Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, federally recognized tribes such as the Aquinnah Wampanoag would be entitled to offer the same form of Class III gaming that is legal in the rest of the state, including slot machines…"
2006-02-27
