Gov. signs gambling compacts with 5 New Mexico tribes

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) – Five New Mexico tribes have new 22-year gambling compacts with the state.

Gov. Susana Martinez signed agreements with the Acoma and Jemez pueblos, the Jicarilla Apache Nation, the Mescalero Apache Tribe and the Navajo Nation.

All of the five tribes but the Jemez Pueblo are currently operating at least one casino.

Martinez signed the agreements Monday during a ceremony at the governor's office Monday with tribal leaders in attendance

The signings followed several years of negotiations and legislative consideration capped by passage of a gambling compact bill during this year's session.

Tribal officials also have signed the agreements, which now go to the federal Department of the Interior for its approval.