The Washington State Gambling Commission has reached a tentative agreement with the Squaxin Island Tribe on a proposed amendment to the tribe’s Class III gaming compact.
The proposed seventh amendment restates the original 1993 compact and incorporates Amendments 1 through 6. The update aligns the Squaxin Island Tribe’s compact with provisions already included in other Washington tribal gaming agreements.
“The proposed amendment modernizes the existing compact by adopting a balanced approach that supports economic development, regulatory consistency, and public health and safety,” said Washington State Gambling Commission Chairperson Alicia Levy.
Tribal Chairman Kris Peters added that the compact remains a key source of funding for tribal government services and employment.
The amendment would allow electronic table games, permit extension of credit, remove per-facility limits, and increase wagering limits.
Proposed changes include allowing wagers of up to $30 on tribal lottery system terminals, up to $1,000 on most table games, and up to $5,000 on limited tables following customer screening.
The proposal also clarifies the tribe’s support for emergency services, government, and nonprofit organizations, requires a non-smoking room if smoking is allowed, and strengthens responsible gaming provisions related to training, self-exclusion, signage, and voluntary limits.
Formal notice has been provided to the Governor and Legislature. The Senate Business, Financial Services & Trade Committee will hold a public hearing on Jan. 21, 2026, followed by the House State Government & Tribal Relations Committee on Feb. 10, 2026.
The Gambling Commission is scheduled to vote on the amendment at its Feb. 12, 2026 public meeting. If approved, the amendment will be sent to the Tribal Chair and Governor for signature and then submitted to the U.S. Department of the Interior for final review and publication in the Federal Register.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2026/01/22/117226-washington-state-gambling-commission-squaxin-island-tribe-agree-to-gaming-compact-amendment
