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Hartford, Conn. (WTNH) – The Governor’s push for Keno games in Connecticut ran into a major road block at the State Capitol, Tuesday.

Representatives of the two Indian casinos said that if the state were to move forward, with Keno, their yearly payments to the state of nearly $400 million would stop.

The Governor’s proposal would establish Keno games at 600 to 1,000 bars, taverns and restaurants across the state to help raise $60 million a year in revenue more in future years.

“It’s an awfully risky proposition moving forward with the game in such an unsettled area,” said John Meskill of Mohegan Gaming Commission.

But state lawmakers got the news that Keno could mean all bets are off from the state’s two Indian casinos.

The state’s agreement with the two Indian tribes delivered $377 million in profit sharing last year. The agreement gives the state 25 percent of all slot machine revenue.

The tribes believe Keno is a casino game and covered by the agreement. The Rell Administration, however, believes Keno is a Lottery game and is not covered.

“The moment the condition exists, that is, a game, as they describe Keno starts, then the obligation to make the payments stop; it’s as simple as that,” said Attorney Jackson King of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe.

“Serious concerns raised today, that is a gray area. I can tell you that I think the council would be deeply concerned about 600 to 1,000 gaming parlors opening up around the state of Connecticut,” said Chuck Bunnell of the Mohegan Tribe.

The Attorney General ruled in June of last year that the question could end up in court and suggested negotiations with the tribes before moving forward.

Rep. Steve Dargan [D] of the Public Safety Committee: “Has there been any efforts to involve the tribes in Keno discussions, from the administration’s stand point, since June 1st of last year?”
Robert L. Genuario, Budget Director: “We began our discussions with the tribes last week.”
Dargan: “Last week?”
Genuario: “Last week.”
Dargan: “Thank you, that’s all I need to know.”
Genuario: “That’s fine.”

So even though the Rell administration has been talking about Keno for nearly a year, only one discussion with the tribes has taken place.

Problem gambling experts also opposed Keno saying no consideration has been given to the downside of this, that it will likely increase problem and underage gambling.