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High Stakes Rhode Island Tribal Gambling Proposal Shelved21 May 2002WASHINGTON, DC – As reported by the Providence Journal: "Rep. Patrick J. Kennedy has quietly shelved what was once one of his signature issues in Congress: the Narragansett Indians' fight for high-stakes gambling rights on tribal lands. "`I have too much on my plate' to seek legislation that would permit the Narragansetts to build a gambling enterprise on their land in Charlestown, said Kennedy, who is among the top recipients of campaign money from gambling interests. "But the tribe still considers it a top priority to pursue the right to build a high-stakes gambling enterprise on their land, without the approval of voters statewide or in the town. "…Since the General Assembly moved last month to launch a study of the gambling issue, the Narragansetts have watched the chances dwindle for a statewide referendum this fall on their bid to build a $500-million casino in West Warwick. "…[Chief Sachem Matthew Thomas] said he understands from Kennedy's office that the congressman will not push the issue in this Congress because opposition in the Republican-majority House is too strong. "…In the years since, Kennedy has become a champion solicitor of campaign money from the gambling industry -- including the Harrah's casino and entertainment empire. "Kennedy has also become a member of the Appropriations Committee, which could give him more leverage to help the Narragansetts than he had in 1998…" |