The South Dakota Gaming Commission recently held a public hearing on the proposed Class III gaming compact between the Oglala Sioux Tribe and the state. The agreement, if approved, would allow the tribe to operate blackjack and poker tables and up to 750 slot machines. The current compact allows the tribe to operate only 250 machines. The tribe could add 250 new slots immediately and 250 more over four years.
Tribal President Bryan Brewer said, “This would open up the door for us to expand gaming. Right now, we could use a few more machines here, but this would give us the opportunity to look at opening up another casino. That’s what we’re looking at right now. We’re looking at different options, land issues, things like that.” Brewer stated sites in the northern portion of the reservation are being considered as potential casino locations.
The current compact expired in June, but an extension until December 31 was approved. A decision on the new compact is expected in about two months, following state and federal approval. Currently the tribe operates the Prairie Wind Casino in Pine Ridge and the smaller East Wind Casino in Martin.
