MASHANTUCKET, Conn. (AP) - The union representing dealers at the Foxwoods Resort Casino has agreed to begin negotiations for a contract with the Mashantucket Pequot tribe under tribal law, rather than federal labor laws.

The National Labor Relations Board had ordered the casino's management to bargain the United Auto Workers, which represents the 2,600 workers.

But the tribe had challenged the dealers' vote to join the UAW, saying the union and labor board have no jurisdiction at Foxwoods because it is owned and run by a sovereign nation.

Under the deal announced Friday, the two sides will enter into discussions for 30 days to see if a deal can be reached under tribal law, but neither side will give up their rights or legal positions under the National Labor Relations Act.