As reported by the Washington Herald: "The number of slot-style machines at American Indian casinos in Snohomish County could jump by more than one-third within three years, thanks to changes to tribal gaming compacts that became effective late last week.

"Twenty-seven of the state's 29 tribes fought for more machines and the option for gamblers to feed the machines cash instead of casino-issued tickets. The tribes also won the right to set their own casino hours.

"In exchange, the tribes will give about one-quarter of 1 percent of their revenues to fight smoking and gambling addiction. Based on last year's revenues, that's about $3.1 million each year.

"Gov. Chris Gregoire signed re-negotiated compacts with the tribes March 30, but the compacts were formalized Thursday, when they were listed in the federal register.

"...Tribes are allowed to lease additional machines. The Tulalip, Muckleshoot and Puyallup tribes can now have up to 3,500 machines each through a combination of leasing and owning, 500 more than the current limit. After three years, that will increase to 4,000 machines..."

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