Tribal Gaming Changes

The National Indian Gaming Commission has been researching the latest proposed changes to the definitions as to what consists of a Class II or Class III slot machine. Right now, a Class II slot machine is more like a bingo machine; and Class III slot machines are your Vegas type machines.

However, there is talk that the Class II bingo machines could soon be lumped into Class III slot machines, which would make them illegal for many of the tribes that now operate them. The tribes are understandably upset by the proposed changes as that is how they make their money, and it would destroy them economically.

No changes have been made yet, it is still in the discussion phase, but tribal leaders say that any change could lead to economic ruin for many of the tribes. The Osage Nation Principal Chief Jim Gray said that if they make Class II machines the same as Class III slot machines, it would make them subject to the revenue collection by the state of Oklahoma. The majority of machines played in the tribal casinos are currently Class II.

Gray says that the changes would end up closing down some of the smaller casinos, and that Oklahoma would be the most affected by the ruling.


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