The governor signed compacts, which were struck down by courts, but the tribal casinos remained opened. To clean up the mess, the state legislature ratified the compacts, but had to also allow slot machines for the state's racetracks and veterans' and fraternal organizations. Tribes in New Mexico have already anticipated the next stage. One way for especially remote tribes to bring back the level playing field is to eliminate the need for the trip at all. Tribal leaders have testified before Congress that they need proxy play, by telephone and computer, or they cannot get enough patrons to stay in business.
Players can now play Indian bingo from their homes.
So racetracks also are demanding the right to take home wagers. It remains to be seen whether home betting is the final, true level playing field.