Spokane Tribe, state present tentative compact amendment to bar certain in‑game college wagers

The Spokane Tribe of Indians and state regulators presented a tentative amendment to the tribe’s gaming compact that would implement limits on in‑state collegiate wagering adopted in the recent legislative session.

“SB 6,137 and the compact amendment offer a legal well regulated option for Washington residents and visitors,” Greg Abrahamson, chairman of the Spokane Tribe of Indians, told the joint Senate and House committees. Abrahamson thanked the Legislature and the Washington State Gambling Commission for moving the legislation and for collaborating on the compact language.

Tina Griffin, director of the Washington State Gambling Commission, said the commission and the tribes reached a tentative agreement after negotiations following a governor’s referral. Griffin told the committee the commission will take public comment and that commissioners and ex officio members will vote on whether to send the amendment to the governor or return it for further negotiation.

Abrahamson said the Spokane Tribe has joined other tribes and state regulators in legal efforts against illegal prediction markets and offshore operators that offer unregulated sports-betting products. He urged the committee to approve the Spokane compact amendment as part of a broader effort to create a lawful, regulated option for wagering in Washington.

The committee did not take a final vote at the hearing. The public comment period runs through Oct. 14 and the Gambling Commission is scheduled to meet Oct. 15 to consider whether to forward the amendment to the governor for signature.