Bookie News: Connecticut Gambling Bills in Trouble after Federal Probe
Lawmakers are currently considering four Connecticut gambling bills covering various aspects of the activity. However, at least two of the bills is facing some challenges. A federal probe revealed former Department of Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke lied to investigators about two tribes’ partnership.
One of the Connecticut gambling billing will allow the Mashantucket Pequots and Mohegans to construct a casino in East Windsor. However, they must sign a federal compact. The DOI approved a compact for the Mohegan tribe, but not for the other tribe.
The signing of the compact stalled due to political pressure. As a result, the Office of the Inspector General started an investigation. In fact, the probe found out that Zinke lied to the investigators during the probe.
Future of Connecticut Gambling Bills
Prosecutors presented evidence to a grand jury in Washington to find out if Zinke lied or not. They want to find out whether to charge Zinke of any crimes. He denied doing any illegal stuff. In addition, he told gambling news reporters that he did what he thought was right.
The DOI agreed to the partnership of the two tribes in 2017. However, the department declined the partnership in September of the same year. As a result, the Mashantucket Pequot Indians and Connecticut filed lawsuits. The tribe said two politicians influenced Zinke. In addition, they said MGM Resorts lobbied to decline the partnership between the two tribes.
After the grand jury convened for the case against Zinke, the Mohegan tribe said they were disappointed about it. However, they stated they were not shocked by the proceeding. These were also the sentiments of a pay per head bookie.
The good news is that the Connecticut gambling bills will not die completely. However, they will suffer some setbacks. Lawmakers need to wait for the results of the hearings and investigations before considering their impact on the bills. That means you still have time to learn how to become a bookie in the state.
