Gambling News by Gambling Headquarters

If other Washington tribes succeed in getting the liberalized gambling rules that are part of a new state agreement with the Spokane Indian Tribe, it could set off a new round of expansion for the 25 Washington state tribal casinos that generated about $1.2 billion in net receipts in 2006. In a prepared statement, Lummi Nation chairwoman Evelyn Jefferson said the tribe prefers not to comment on its negotiations with the state on gambling issues. But she also noted that Lummi Nation's gambling agreement "allows incorporation of new features that other tribes have gained through negotiations with the state." The Lummis expanded their Silver Reef Casino last year, adding more gaming machines and a hotel. Silver Reef's current total of 675 machines is the maximum allowed under the existing compact, but that could change if the Spokanes get permission to operate a larger number of machines. Mike Wootan, general manager of the Nooksack Indian Tribe's Nooksack River Casino, said he could not speak for the tribe. But he thinks some features of the Spokane agreement would be welcome at the Nooksack casino. The 2,300-member Spokane Tribe is the only tribe in Washington state that still operates gambling casinos without a compact - a deal between the tribe and the state that limits gambling operations. The proposed Spokane compact, worked out between the tribe and Washington Gambling Commission staff, needs the approval of that commission, Gov. Chris Gregoire and the U.S. Department of the Interior. Rick Day, executive director of the gambling commission, said it's important for both the state and the tribe to get Spokane gambling out of legal limbo. The deal will make it easier for the tribe to arrange financing of new gambling development, while the state gets some limits on the tribe's gambling growth, Day said.