SE Mass. gambling bidding could expand

BOSTON (AP) - The head of the state gambling board says the race for a casino in southeastern Massachusetts could open up to commercial interests if the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian tribe's efforts to open a casino fall through.

State gambling commission Chairman Stephen Crosby says the Wampanoags still face significant hurdles in their efforts to open a casino in Taunton, and the state needs to be ready in case that effort dissolves.

The commission members said at the same time they want to respect the tribe's federal rights.

Tribal council Chairman Cedric Cromwell said in a letter to the commission that the tribe "continues to make great progress" in its efforts to open a casino.

State law allows for three casinos in three distinct regions of the state.