A recent report revealed that Michigan has already lost about $337 million dollars in the generation of Native American casino revenues. The enormous loss occurred due to the agreement between the state and seven local Indian tribes, which allows them not to pay an established share of their gaining if they fail to maintain their slots monopoly in Michigan. The monopoly came to an end when legislators allowed casino gambling to some other tribes, about 7 years ago.

According to this report, federal officials rarely visit the state’s tribal casinos and, furthermore, only on occasions check their books. As a result, gaming regulators are not sure whether tribal casino operators have actually paid what was agreed with their nearest communities.

Dan Gustafson, Michigan Gaming Control Board executive director, responded to these findings stating that, even though they admit weak control over Michigan Indian casinos, the Board is not responsible for the situation. This failure should be considered a result of the lack of staff and enough funds, he added. Tribal operators say they have regulated their payments appropriately, considering regulations from the outside unnecessary.