AUGUSTA (AP) — The Passamaquoddy tribe is making another attempt to bring a combined racetrack and casino to Calais as the state begins to study how gaming should be expanded in Maine.

The Eastern Maine Tribe has been trying to get a casino for more than 20 years, but has failed to get enough statewide for its approval. Under a bill the tribe plans to push in January, only Washington County voters would have to approve it.

It comes as the state begins looking at how to create a competitive bidding process for casino licenses. The newly formed Gaming Commission had its first meeting Friday.

All new casino proposals are on hold until a bidding process is established. But an exception in the law will allow the Passamaquoddy to move forward in January.