The Seneca Nation of Indians said it has reached an agreement in principle with New York state to continue operating casinos for another 20 years.

This is not the final step, but a major one after what the Senecas admit have been sometimes contentious negotiations. The Senecas said they reached a framework deal early Wednesday afternoon although they have not released any major details yet.

President Rickey Armstrong, Jr. in a brief press conference said the specific terms will be finalized in the next few days. He said the negotiating parties hope to move as quickly as possible.

The current deal has been in place since 2002 and expires Dec. 9. The Seneca’s three casinos in Western New York are the largest revenue generator for the Nation.