THE NEW MEXICO HOUSE APPROVES A NEW 22-YEAR GAMING COMPACT BETWEEN THE STATE AND INDIAN TRIBES WITH CASINOS. IT PASSED ON A 61-TO-5 VOTE THURSDAY AFTERNOON. AND NAVAJO NATION PRESIDENT BEN SHELLY CALLS IT A WIN-WIN SITUATION.
THE MEASURE ALLOWS SOME CASINOS LONGER OPERATING HOURS WHILE SHARING REVENUE WITH THE STATE. IT ALSO PROVIDES SOME PERKS FOR GAMBLERS. THE NEW COMPACT EXPIRES AT THE END OF JUNE, 2037.
GOVERNOR MARTINEZ IS EXPECTED TO SIGN THE MEASURE AS HER OFFICE NEGOTIATED THE DEAL WITH THE TRIBES. THE U-S INTERIOR DEPARTMENT HAS FINAL SAY ON APPROVAL.
