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Proposed tribal gaming changes criticized

OKLAHOMA – As reported by Tulsa World: "Proposed changes to federal gaming definitions will hinder economic growth and opportunity for tribes, area tribal leaders said.

"The National Indian Gaming Commission is still reviewing ideas for proposed changes in definitions of a bingo-based (Class II) machine and a skill-based (Class III) machine.

"Although no changes have been made yet, tribal leaders insist that any changes could have a significant impact.

"Osage Nation Principal Chief Jim Gray said that if the gaming commission redefines current games, Class II games could become Class III games and subject to revenue collection by the state of Oklahoma.

"Most games being played in Oklahoma's 90 tribal casinos are Class II, he noted.

"…Changes 'would kill some of the smaller casinos who do not operate a casino in an urban market,' he said. 'Tribes should defend the right to have an option of whether they want to have Class II or Class III games.'

"Oklahoma would likely be most affected by changes to Class II definitions, Gray said…"

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