A legislative panel is asking the Navajo Nation and Gov. Susana Martinez's administration to renegotiate a proposed compact to restrict the state's largest tribe to their existing casinos rather than allowing an expansion of gambling.
The Committee on Compacts voted 9-5 on Friday to recommend negotiators return to the bargaining table.
Navajo officials made it clear they oppose changing a provision that would allow the tribe to open three additional casinos.
The Navajos operate two Las Vegas-style casinos in New Mexico under a compact expiring next year. A third Navajo casino offers low-stakes gambling not subject to state regulation.
Laguna and Acoma pueblos contend their casinos would be hurt if the Navajos expand gambling. Other tribes worry the Navajo agreement will set a precedent for future compacts.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.