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Massachusetts tribe pushes for casino

BOSTON, Massachusetts – As reported by the Cape Cod Times: "If they win tribal recognition from the U.S. Department of the Interior today, the Mashpee Wampanoag will push aggressively for an off-Cape casino in Southeastern Massachusetts.

"'Everything is on the table,' the tribe's spokesman, Scott Ferson, said yesterday.

"The tribe will consider every development opportunity allowed under federal gaming rules and a potential gaming compact with the state, Ferson said. That includes opportunities in housing, health care, alternative energy and a casino with the amenities of Foxwoods or Mohegan Sun in Connecticut.

"…But even after today's expected recognition and its required 90-day waiting period, there would be hurdles. The tribe would have to acquire off-Cape land to be put in federal trust; wait for approval from the state Legislature for Class III gaming such as slot machines or casinos; and negotiate a gaming compact with the governor.

"…The tribe, which currently owns at least 160 acres in Mashpee, is looking for a location in an off-Cape community that welcomes a casino, Ferson said. It would take at least a year to purchase or acquire land, which would then be held in trust by the federal government, he said…"

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