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Maine Tribes Request Meeting with Governor

AUGUSTA, Maine – As reported by the Portland Press Herald: "Minutes after the Maine Senate gave final approval to a Washington County racino Friday, leaders of the state's American Indian tribes requested a meeting with Gov. John Baldacci. With passage of the bill to allow a tribal-run harness racetrack with up to 1,500 slot machines, the tribes are as close as they have ever been in their pursuit to expand American Indian gaming in Maine. But Baldacci's pledge to veto the racino bill could end months of work by the tribes at the State House.

"Tribal leaders plan to make a final appeal to the governor, but concede it will be difficult. And there is not enough support in the Senate and House of Representatives at this point to overturn a Baldacci veto.

"…But Baldacci presents the final and most difficult challenge for the tribes.

"They have sold the racino in the Senate and House as an issue of fairness and a chance to turn around the high unemployment among the tribes and the struggling economy of Washington County.

"…But Baldacci and lawmakers who oppose the racino do not see it providing a sustainable economic benefit for Washington County…"

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