December 5, 2012 (BOSTON) _ The head of the state gambling board says they could open up southeastern Massachusetts to commercial casino interests if the Wampanoag Tribe's efforts to open a casino fall through.

State gambling commission Chairman Stephen Crosby says the Mashpee tribe still faces significant hurdles in their efforts to open a casino in Taunton.

And while 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 says 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.