The U.S. Department of the Interior has approved a set of changes to the Arizona Gaming Compact. The update means the Tohono O’odham Nation can now offer Class III gaming at its casino near Glendale.
The West Valley casino had been the subject of a years long legal battle. The state and a few other local tribes had opposed the Desert Diamond Casino since it was announced arguing it violated the state gaming compact.
The last litigation was settled earlier this year when Gov. Doug Ducey agreed to provide the permits for full-scale Class III gaming at the site. In exchange, the tribe agreed not to try to open any more casinos in Maricopa County until at least 2041.
With the legal green light, the Tohono O’odham Nation can begin the process of bringing in table games and true slot machines. Tribal officials say those will be introduced after the completion of a new building, which is expected in 2019.