The White Earth Tribe, accounting for almost 40 percent of Minnesota's native population, has officially offered $400 million to the state in hopes of pushing its MinnesotaWins project and furthering the Vikings stadium situation. The MinnesotaWins project equates to a casino operated by White Earth, where revenues will then be split 50-50 between the tribe and the state.
"Minnesota will have the money, the Vikings will be able to proceed in a timely manner - taking advantage of today's low interest rates and favorable construction costs - and taxpayers need have no concern that they will be on the hook," said White Earth chairwoman Erma Vizenor in a statement.
In addition, two important stadium-related bills each made their way through House and Rules committees this week, and are expected to be sent forward yet again in the near future. The two bills provide additional tax relief for charitable groups involved in the financing plan, locate backup funding sources for the state's contribution, and incorporate sports-themed tipboards, which are estimated to yield $16 million in tax revenue per year.
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