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Editorial: Questions about Shingle Springs casino (12/22)

"The big question remains, can gambling revenues continue to grow in a deepening recession? Historically, gambling has been more resistant to recession than other businesses, but the nation's current massive downturn is beginning to challenge...

Coyote Valley Band renames casino with new team (12/19)

The Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians of California has renamed its casino and brought in a new management team. The facility will be known as the Coyote Valley Casino. The original name was the...

Shingle Springs Band welcomes thousands to casino (12/18)

The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians said 10,000 people lined up for the opening of the Red Hawk Casino on Wednesday. Traffic was backed up on a major highway leading to the $530...

Large crowds expected at Shingle Springs casino (12/17)

Large crowds are expected this evening as the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians opens its first casino in northern California. The 278,000 square-foot Red Hawk Casino is located off a major highway. The...

San Manuel Band promotes casino at major venue (12/17)

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians will be promoting its casino at a major venue in southern California: the Staples Center in Los Angeles. The tribe signed a five-year contract to place advertising for...

North Fork Chair: Casino will boost economy (12/15)

"The proposed North Fork destination hotel and casino resort will immediately jump start our region's faltering economy by providing nearly $2.5 billion in economic activity over the next 20 years - if it's given a...

Shingle Springs Band readies opening of casino (12/15)

The The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians of California opens its first casino on Wednesday. The Red Hawk Casino features 2,000 slot machines, 75 gambling tables, six restaurants and four bars. It's located off...

Gaming revenues see huge decline in Nevada (12/11)

Gaming revenues in Nevada took another big hit in October, the state Gaming Control Board reported. Gross casino revenue fell 22.3 percent compared to October 2007. In Las Vegas, which generates more than half the...

Deputies praised for solving Soboba casino heist (12/11)

Deputies from the Riverside County Sheriff's Department in California were honored for solving the theft of $1.58 million from the casino owned by the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians. The August 7, 2007, robbery at...

Opinion: California tribes destroy charities (12/09)

"The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors just acted to comply with a new law banning electronic forms of charity bingo – one the Legislature crammed through in 11 days at the end of the 2008...

Guidiville Band expects Obama answer on casino (12/08)

The Guidiville Band of Pomo Indians of California expects to receive an answer on its casino proposal from the new administration of president-elect Barack Obama. The tribe plans a gaming facility at the former Point...

Sycuan Band drops plans for casino expansion (12/05)

Citing the sour economy, the Sycuan Band of Kumeyaay Indians has dropped its gaming expansion plans. The tribe signed a Class III gaming compact to add 3,000 slot machines to the Sycuan Resort and open...

North Fork Rancheria awaits casino financing (12/01)

The North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians signed a Class III gaming compact earlier this year for a casino in California. But it could be some time before the tribe breaks ground on the $250...

Auburn Tribe scales back casino expansion (11/26)

The United Auburn Indian Community of California is scaling back a $1 billion expansion of the Thunder Valley Casino. A spokesperson said the tribe is responding to the downturn in the economy. "It's important given...

Jamul Band sues state transportation agency (11/25)

The Jamul Band of Kumeyaay Indians has sued the California Department of Transportation, accusing the agency of unfairly blocking the tribe's casino plans. The tribe wants to open a Class II facility on its...

(11/19)

The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians announced the December 17 opening of its casino after winning federal approval of its tribal-state Class III gaming compact. The Red Hawk Casino features 2,000 slot machines, 75...

Dry Creek Band reports drop in casino revenues (11/18)

The Dry Creek Band of Pomo Indians of California reported an 8 percent drop in gaming revenues. The River Rock Casino saw revenues of $32.3 million in the last quarter. That's down from $35...

Casino Travel: Great tribal resorts in California (11/17)

"If there’s one true thing about casinos, it’s that they all feel alike. Walk through that big smoked-glass door and you know where you are in an instant. The casino floor, where the money is...

Morongo Band lays off 95 casino employees (11/13)

The Morongo Band of Mission Indians of California is laying off 95 casino employees. The Morongo Resort Casino & Spa cited the downturn in the economy as the reason for the job cuts. They...

Pauma Band to cut casino jobs amid downturn (11/10)

The Pauma Yuima Band of Mission Indians of California will be eliminating employees at Casino Pauma. The tribe cited the economy in making the cuts. It's not known how many employees will be let go....

Rincon casino featured in same-sex marriage ads (11/04)

The casino owned by the Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians of California is featured in a national ad campaign that aims to attract gay and lesbian customers. The "Marry in San Diego, Honeymoon in Paris"...

Fort Mojave off-reservation casino on ballot (11/04)

The Fort Mojave Tribe is hoping voters in Needles, California, will support an off-reservation casino at the polls today. The tribe wants to build a casino on 300 acres just outside the city. Plans call...

Opinion: Vote against tribal casino supporters (10/31)

"The voters in the city of Plymouth will once again have the opportunity on Nov. 4 to express their desires on the tribal casino proposed for Plymouth. Depending on how you count, this will be...

Fort Mojave off-reservation casino up for vote (10/29)

Voters in Needles, California, will have their say on November 4 on an off-reservation casino sought by the Fort Mojave Tribe. Voters are being asked to approve the location of a casino outside of...

City reaps benefits of Lytton Band casino (10/29)

One city in California seems immune from the downturn in the national economy, thanks to a successful Class II casino operated by the Lytton Band of Pomo Indians. The tribe opened San Pablo Lytton Casino...

Soboba Band concerned about traffic around casino (10/28)

The Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians is looking for ways to reduce traffic around its casino in southern California. The tribe is considering a proposal to reduce the number of seats at the arena...

Graton Rancheria casino affected by economy (10/28)

After years of debate, the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria of California, also known as the Coast Miwok Tribe, finally won approval for its casino project in May. But the tribe's proposal for a...

Court won't rehear California compact lawsuit (10/27)

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals on Friday said it won't rehear a gaming compact lawsuit involving the Cachil Dehe Band of Wintun Indians. The tribe sued the state over the number of gaming devices...

Gaming regulator slams California for new rules (10/21)

A tribal gaming regulator accused the state of California of trying to take control of tribal casinos by imposing rules for minimum internal control standards. Michael Lombardi, the chairman of the gaming commission for the...

San Pasqual Band breaks ground on casino hotel (10/21)

The San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians broke ground on a hotel at the Valley View Casino on Monday. The 161-room hotel is expected to open in early 2010. It includes a spa, fitness center,...

IGRA brings change, good and bad, to California (10/16)

A lot has changed for California tribes since the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act became law 20 years ago this month. Some tribes have become incredible successes. Gaming in California is an $8 billion business....

Column: Regulation after casino bus crash (10/16)

"In Sacramento's immigrant neighborhoods last weekend, Laotian families celebrated ancient funeral rites, laying to rest elderly victims of a horrific bus crash that killed nine people on their way to a night of gambling at...

California panel adopts MICS over tribal objections (10/15)

The California Gambling Control Commission voted unanimously to adopt minimum internal control standards at tribal facilities. Tribes oppose the agency's regulations. They say Class III standards should be included in the tribal-state compact. The state...

Jamul Band sues state over road to new casino (10/10)

The Jamul Band of Kumeyaay Indians is suing the California Department of Transportation in federal court over roadwork to the tribe's proposed casino. The tribe plans to widen a road and add a traffic...

Ousted Redding Rancheria family protests work (10/09)

A family whose members were disenrolled from the Redding Rancheria of California protested work the tribe is doing to expand its casino. The Foremans, who were removed from the tribe in 2004, attempted to...

9th Circuit allows San Pasqual compact lawsuit (10/08)

The San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians can sue the state of California over the tribe's Class III gaming compact, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals said in an unpublished decision. The tribe signed a...

Quechan Nation seeks new financing for casino (10/07)

The Quechan Nation is looking for new financing to continue a $214 million casino expansion project, President Mike Jackson said. The tribe needs $25 million to finish work at the Quechan Casino Resort. The...

Dry Creek Band puts casino expansion on hold (10/03)

After announcing plans to scale back an expansion of the River Rock Casino, the Dry Creek Band of Pomo Indians of California has put the entire project on hold. The tribe planned a $600 million...

California charities can't offer electronic bingo games (10/02)

Charities and churches won't be able to offer electronic bingo games under a bill signed into law by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) on Tuesday. Large churches will be allowed to offer bigger paper bingo games....

Rumsey Band shares $5.16M in gaming revenues (10/02)

The Rumsey Band of Wintun Indians shared $5.16 million in gaming revenues with Yolo County, California. The tribe makes the annual payment under a memorandum of understanding with the county. The payment is meant to...

Shingle Springs Band sends compact to BIA (10/01)

The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians of California says it's on track to open its casino in December. All that's needed is for the Bureau of Indian Affairs to approve the tribe's Class III...

Opinion: Schwarzenegger leads gaming expansion (10/01)

"If there is one politician in the country that should be credited with the rapid growth of the casino industry in the United States, it is California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. He is signing Indian tribe...

McCain opposed one casino but protected another (09/30)

Sen. John McCain (R-Arizona) led the fight against an off-reservation casino in the Bay Area while protecting another one whose partners were close associates, The Berkeley Daily Planet reported. McCain backed legislation that would force...

Dry Creek Band scales back casino expansion (09/29)

The Dry Creek Band of Pomo Indians has scaled back plans to expand its casino in California. The tribe planned a $600 million expansion of River Rock Casino. But due to the national economic...

Thousands seek jobs at Shingle Springs casino (09/23)

More than 14,000 people have applied for jobs at the casino being opened by the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians of California. The Red Hawk Casino is scheduled open later this year. With...

Rumsey Chair: California tribes regulate casinos (09/22)

"The Bee's editorial regarding tribal gaming failed to mention that the standards the California Gambling Control Commission seeks to impose unilaterally on tribes are duplicative, unnecessary and discriminatory. Ill-considered commentaries like The Bee's leave a...

Opinion: California tribes win compact case (09/19)

"In a win for California gaming tribes, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals on Aug. 9 revived two gaming device licensing suits brought by the Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian...

Rumsey Band concerned about prison near casino (09/18)

The Rumsey Band of Wintun Indians is opposing the location of a prison in Yolo County, California. The prison would be located along the same highway as the Cache Creek Casino Resort. The Sacramento Bee...

Editorial: Undermining gaming regulation in California (09/17)

"Why did Attorney General Jerry Brown side with Indian gaming tribes over his own regulatory partner, the California Gambling Control Commission? Does he genuinely believe that the vote, for a set of desperately needed...

Editorial: Gaming tribes flex power in California (09/16)

"When charities went up against casino-owning Indian tribes in Sacramento recently, they got schooled in who wields the real political power. The outcome raises serious questions about whether Californians meant to forever guarantee tribes that...

Viejas Band announces tribal gaming commissioner (09/16)

The Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians of California has named Tracy Burris, a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma, as a tribal gaming commissioner. Burris has a long career in Indian gaming. He...

Court fight looms over California gaming rules (09/15)

California attorney general Jerry Brown is prepared to defend the state's gaming rules even though he voted against them at a recent meeting. The state Gambling Control Commission spent 18 months developing the minimum internal...

Cabazon Band casino extends sponsorship of fair (09/11)

The casino owned by the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians will continue to sponsor the popular Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival. The Fantasy Springs Resort Casino has sponsoring fair for 14 years. The...

California tribes reject state version of MICS (09/08)

The California Gambling Control Commission is prepared to enforce its version of the minimum internal control standards (MICS) on tribes even though most of them oppose the effort. The state developed the MICS after a...

Sycuan Band accused of offering Class III bingo (09/08)

The California Gambling Control Commission meets this week to determine whether the Sycuan Band of Kumeyaay Indians is violating the tribal-state compact by offering "one-touch" bingo machines. The tribe says the machines fall into the...

Pauma Band offers casino 'games' on its website (09/08)

The California Gambling Control Commission is looking into a virtual casino being offered by the Pauma Band of Mission Indians. The tribe launched the games on the Casino Pauma website last month. Players can try...

Editorial: Gaming tribes get whatever they want (09/05)

"In recent years, charity bingo has been unable to compete with the richer prizes and slot machine-type bingo games allowed at Indian casinos in California. Alarmed by dwindling bingo revenues, the Catholic Church, one of...

Judge invalidates Scotts Valley casino agreement (09/04)

A judge in California invalidated a casino agreement between the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians and the city of Richmond. The tribe agreed to pay $335 million over 20 years for emergency services, roadwork...

California Bingo: A story about tribes, priests and... (09/03)

"This is a story about how laws are made in California. It's about poor kids in Los Angeles who lack tuition for parochial school, and disabled kids in Sacramento whose beloved therapy program is...

NIGC still looking into safety at Soboba casino (09/02)

The National Indian Gaming Commission is still looking into safety issues at the casino owned by the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians. The Riverside County Sheriff's Department and some citizens' groups want the Soboba...

Former GOP leader DeLay to speak at Morongo (09/01)

Connections to Indian gaming helped bring down former Congressman Tom DeLay (R-Texas) but that isn't stopping him from speaking at the casino owned by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians. DeLay, the former House majority...

California bill bans electronic bingo machines (08/28)

The California Assembly passed a bill on Wednesday to ban electronic bingo machines at churches and charities. The California Tribal Business Alliance, which consist of six tribes represented by the same attorney, is pushing...

GamblingResort.com checks out California casinos (08/28)

"Any time the crew can hit the road and get away from the stressful environs of Los Angeles is time well spent. Departing from Long Beach by car and first driving over the never-ending “Grapevine”...

Judge invalidates Scotts Valley casino agreement (08/26)

A judge in California has invalidated a casino agreement between the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians and the city of Richmond. The tribe agreed to pay $335 million over 20 years for emergency services,...

Rookie Gambler: Five tribal casinos in one night (08/25)

"I had seen the casinos numerous times, rising into Sunday-morning skies, but I had never seen their neon against the dark hillsides on a Saturday night, never mind from a seat at one of...

Editorial: Veto expansion of bingo in California (08/25)

"Every session of the Legislature offers several examples of some big interest groups ganging up to kick the stuffing out of a smaller interest group. In this session, the premier example centers on the seemingly...

Editorial: Meaningless promise from Graton Rancheria (08/22)

"When it comes to the proposed mega-casino in Rohnert Park, Sonoma County supervisors certainly can talk the talk. Unfortunately, they talk the talk of opposition, but quickly turn their backs and walk the other way....

Small charities question California bingo deal (08/20)

Small charities won't benefit from a bill that expands bingo operations, the California Charity Bingo Association said. The bill allows charities and churches to offer bigger bingo games and run games simultaneously at multiple...

Barona casino donates gas to Meals on Wheels (08/20)

The Barona Band of Mission Indians donated a 4,000-gallon tanker of gas to Meals on Wheels as part of a promotion at the Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino. The donation enables Meals on...

Deal reached on bingo expansion in California (08/19)

California churches and charities will be able to expand their bingo games under a compromise announced on Monday. The deal allows churches and charities to hold bigger games with bigger prizes But they won't be...

Kate Spilde: Gaming tribes share the jackpot (08/18)

"Millions of dollars a year in gaming revenue are spent by county Indian tribes on hundreds of charitable organizations and causes that benefit a wide segment of San Diego’s population. Schools, chambers of commerce...

Pechanga Chair: California tribes boost state (08/18)

"Public discussion of Indian gaming has become a common part of California’s politics. Each election, it seems, Indian gaming issues are pushed front and center by one group or another. In the latest of these...

California tribes and charities fight over bingo (08/15)

Some California tribes are warning of casinos on every corner if charities are allowed to operate electronic bingo machines. The California Tribal Business Alliance says some charity bingo halls are offering games that don't comply...

Dry Creek Band reports drop in gaming revenues (08/15)

The Dry Creek Band of Pomo Indians is reporting a slight drop in gaming revenues amid the downturn in the national economy. Revenues at the River Rock Casino were $33.7 million in the quarter that...

No vote on Graton Rancheria casino for now (08/14)

Supervisors in Sonoma County, California, missed a deadline to put an advisory vote on the Graton Rancheria casino on the November ballot. But the county could put the issue on another ballot if an anti-gaming...

Sycuan Band's liquor license sees opposition (08/12)

The Sycuan Band of Kumeyaay Indians faces opposition to its application to serve liquor at the Sycuan Resort The tribe is the only one in San Diego County without a liquor license. A prior application...

Q&A: Lawyer Howard Dickstein on Indian gaming (08/11)

The Sacramento Bee interviews Howard Dickstein, an attorney who represents a small group of tribes in California, about Indian gaming issues in the state. Q: "Two major casino tribes, Viejas and Pechanga, recently announced layoffs...

Three California tribes share $65.1M with state (08/11)

In just four months, three tribes have contributed $65.1 million in gaming revenues to the state of California. The Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians and the Agua Caliente Band...

California churches to urge boycott of casinos (08/08)

Catholic churches and charities say they are ready to boycott tribal casinos over a gaming dispute. The churches and charities want to be able to offer a new form of paper bingo. Tribes say the...

NIGC visits Soboba casino amid violence fears (08/08)

The National Indian Gaming Commission inspected the casino owned by the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians in California on Thursday. The visit was described as routine though it comes amid fears of violence on the...

North Fork Chair: Casino to boost area economy (08/07)

"The North Fork Rancheria has worked in a partnership with local, state and federal entities to bring jobs and economic opportunity to our region through a proposed casino resort project. At the local level, every...

California county approves $38M Pauma Band deal (08/07)

The board of supervisors in San Diego County, California, approved a $38 million deal with the Pauma Band of Mission Indians. The tribe has agreed to pay $25.5 million for numerous road improvements around its...

BIA reviews status of Sycuan Band's compact (08/06)

Can the Bureau of Indian Affairs rescind a Class III gaming compact that has already been published in the Federal Register? That's the question being considered with respect to the Sycuan Band of Kumeyaay Indians...

California county rejects gaming referendum (08/06)

The board of supervisors in Butte County, California, won't schedule a voter referendum on Indian gaming due to lack of support. Supervisors instead decide to hold a hearing to address the impacts of gaming. The...

San Pasqual Band seeks to assure gaming investors (08/05)

The company that runs the casino owned by the San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians is seeking to reassure investors. The tribe is going through a leadership crisis but the San Pasqual Casino Development Group...

California county weighs gaming referendum (08/05)

Supervisors in Butte County, California, are considering a referendum that asks voters about future tribal casinos. The county is suing the National Indian Gaming Commission in hopes of blocking the Mechoopda Tribe from building a...

Morongo Band goes back to basics with casino (08/04)

After trying to lure a younger crowd to its casino, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians is focusing on its core customers. The tribe debuted a $250 million expansion of the Morongo Casino Resort...

Editorial: California lawmakers gamble jobs away (08/04)

"There were so many influential state legislators at the party celebrating the expansion of the Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino the other night in Coarsegold that they could have solved the state's budget mess in...

Editorial: Gambling on gambling is a big gamble (08/04)

"Gambling on gambling is a big gamble. So it is more than a little alarming that gambling is such a big part pf Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's plan to close the state's $15.2 billion budget gap....

Three California tribes share $64.9M with state (08/01)

Three California tribes whose Class III gaming compacts were approved by state voters in February have contributed $64.9 million to the state. The Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians has given the largest amount so...

Pechanga Band makes $30.8M payment to state (07/31)

The Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians made a $30.8 million compact payment to the state of California on Wednesday. The tribe's Class III compact was approved by voters in February. It allows the tribe to...

California tribe worried about state lottery plan (07/30)

The United Auburn Indian Community says California tribes are being threatened by a proposal to expand the state lottery. The tribe says a draft of the proposed constitutional amendment would allow the state to offer...

County sheriff asks NIGC to close Soboba casino (07/30)

Tensions between the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians and the Riverside County Sheriff's Department don't seem to have eased following the signing of a mediation agreement. Citing a lack of cooperation from the tribe, Sheriff...

Habematolel Pomo make plans for first casino (07/29)

The Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake plan to negotiate a Class III gaming compact with the state of California before breaking ground on the tribe's first casino. The tribe's land-into-trust application was approved on July...

Pauma Band reaches casino agreement with county (07/29)

The Pauma Band of Luiseno Indians reached a memorandum of understanding with San Diego County, California, over the tribe's $300 million casino resort. The tribe will pay $38 million for road improvements around the...

Habematolel Pomo casino wins BIA approval (07/28)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs has issued a finding of no significant impact for the casino sought by the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake in California. The tribe plans a $35 million casino on 11.25...

Sycuan Band applies for liquor license at casino (07/28)

The Sycuan Band of Kumeyaay Indians has applied for a license to serve liquor at its casino in southern California. The Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control rejected the tribe's first license in 1993. Opponents were...

Editorial: Oppose Graton Rancheria casino (07/24)

"The latest, best hope to stop a gargantuan Las Vegas-style casino from being built in Rohnert Park may come from Assemblyman Jared Huffman. With the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors unwilling to place an advisory...

Auburn Rancheria starts work on casino expansion (07/24)

The United Auburn Indian Community of California broke ground on a casino expansion that analysts say could cost up to $1 billion. The tribe opened the Thunder Valley Casino in 2003. The facility has...

County approves Graton Rancheria casino deal (07/23)

Supervisors in Sonoma County, California approved a casino-related deal with the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, also known as the Coast Miwok Tribe. The deal doesn't affect the tribe's plans for a casino in Rohnert...

Pechanga Band to lay off casino employees (07/23)

The Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians will lay off as many as 400 employees at the Pechanga Resort & Casino. Officials blamed the economy for the layoffs, which represent about 9 percent of the...

Guidiville Band finds backer for Bay Area casino (07/23)

The Guidiville Band of Pomo Indians has found a new backer for its proposed casino in the Bay Area. The tribe is seeking to build a casino at the former Point Molate Naval Base in...

Lawmaker wary of deal with Graton Rancheria (07/22)

A Democratic lawmaker in California says a deal with the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, contains "loopholes" that could allow the tribe to pursue more than one casino. Sonoma County and Marin County are weighing...

Graton Rancheria agrees to stick with one casino (07/21)

The Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, also known as the Coast Miwok Tribe, are nearing an agreement with two counties to limit future casinos. The tribe received federal approval to open a casino in Rohnert...

Opinion: No reservation shopping in California (07/21)

"When Californians approved Propositions 1A and 5, they were told -- and believed -- that these landmark gaming initiatives would give our state's Indian tribes the right to operate casinos on Indian lands. Voters never...

United Auburn Tribe starts casino expansion (07/17)

The United Auburn Indian Community of California will begin construction on a major expansion of its casino. The Thunder Valley Casino will see more gaming space, a poker room, a 5,000-car parking structure, three...

Twenty-Nine Palms Band delays casino work (07/17)

The Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians has delayed construction of its casino due to the discovery of an endangered species. The tribe was moving forward with plans for the Nuwu Casino Resort and RV...

Agua Caliente Band unveils sculpture at casino (07/15)

The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians unveiled a granite sculpture at the tribe's casino in Palm Springs, California. The sculpture outside the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa depicts four men playing peon, a...

Chumash Chair: Governor raids tribal gaming fund (07/10)

"When the tribal-state gaming compacts were first negotiated back in 1999 with then-Governor Gray Davis, a special fund was created in the State Treasury called “the Indian Gaming Special Distribution Fund” (SDF). The SDF was...

Lawsuit planned over water to Shingle Springs casino (07/09)

A group called Voices for Rural Living plans to sue to stop water service to the casino owned by the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians of California. The tribe plans to open the...

California holding onto $30M in gaming revenues (07/07)

For two years in a row, California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) has refused to release gaming revenues to local communities. Tribes with Class III gaming compacts contribute to a special distribute fund to address the...

Editorial: North Fork Band reservation shopping (07/07)

"The proposed casino on Highway 99 in Madera County is still a bad idea, even if the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs has rejected the Old Mill site near the mountain town of North Fork...

California tribes monitor online poker legislation (07/03)

California tribes are monitoring legislation that could pave the way for online poker in the state. AB 2026 authorizes the state Department of Justice to create guidelines and regulations for online poker. Final approval of...

Schwarzenegger signs Shingle Springs Band compact (07/02)

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) signed a Class III gaming compact with the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians on Tuesday. The deal allows the tribe to install a maximum of 5,000 slot machines at...

BIA changes course on North Fork casino bid (07/02)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs won't require the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians of California to consider another casino site. In one of his final actions as assistant secretary, Carl Artman asked the BIA's...

Judge issues stay in Rincon Band compact case (07/02)

A federal judge issued a stay in a Class III gaming compact dispute between the Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians and the state of California. Judge William McCurine said he won't force the two parties...

Tule River Tribe seeks off-reservation casino (06/30)

The Tule River Tribe of California seeking federal approval for an off-reservation casino. The tribe operates the Eagle Mountain Casino on its reservation. A location closer to the city of Porterville would draw in more...

Letter: Sycuan Band insults California taxpayers (06/30)

"An article in Monday's edition was about the Sycuan tribe being allowed to skip on a payment to the state until next year, costing California a much-needed revenue of $30 million. What happened to the...

Judge plans to issue ruling in Rincon compact case (06/27)

A federal magistrate said he will issue a ruling as early as next week in a Class III gaming compact dispute between the Rincon Band of Mission Indians and the state of California. On April...

Judge issues injunction in electronic bingo case (06/26)

A federal judge in California put a halt to the state's campaign to remove electronic machines in bingo halls. Attorney general Jerry Brown claims the machines violate state law. But Judge John A. Mendez...

California committee rejects slot machine bill (06/26)

The California Assembly Governmental Organization Committee rejected a bill that would have allowed tribes to operate more slot machines. In 1999, 61 tribes signed compacts that allowed up to 2,000 slot machines. But a statewide...

Column: Gaming tribes slow to support Indian causes (06/24)

"Almost any trip to the mailbox reveals just how wrong is the current perception that because of proliferating casinos, most American Indians have now become wealthy. Mailed appeals arrive daily throughout California from charities like...

Neighbors keep close eye on Jamul casino work (06/23)

The Jamul Indian Village is building a casino entirely within its reservation boundaries but nearby residents are stalking the small California tribe tribe's every move. Casino opponents take pictures of every minor change on...

Editorial: Lawsuit aimed at Graton casino 'threat' (06/19)

"Efforts to stop a gigantic, Las Vegas-style casino complex from being built in Rohnert Park have been disappointing to date. But a lawsuit filed earlier this month could slow the momentum of casino developers and...

Sycuan Band delays expansion under new compact (06/19)

The Sycuan Band of Kumeyaay Indians and three other California tribe spent $100 million to convince voters to approve their Class III gaming compacts. But the Sycuan Band has yet to make the deal official...

NIGC warns Soboba Band about violence and casino (06/16)

The National Indian Gaming Commission has warned the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians that the tribe's casino could face closure due to violent incidents on the reservation. Three tribal members were killed in shootouts with...

County criticizes Rumsey Band casino expansion (06/11)

The board of supervisors in Yolo County, California, approved a letter objecting to the casino expansion sought by the Rumsey Band of Wintun Indians. The tribe plans to double the number of hotel rooms at...

BIA questions revenue-sharing in gaming compacts (06/11)

Revenue-sharing provisions in Class III gaming compacts raise a "red flag," a Bureau of Indian Affairs official told lawmakers in California. Paula Hart, director of the BIA's Office of Indian Gaming Management, said states cannot...

Couple sues Barona Band over bedbugs at casino (06/09)

A non-Indian couple in California is trying to get the state courts to hear a lawsuit against the Barona Band of Mission Indians. Gloria and Robert Chisley stayed at the Barona Resort & Casino...

Editorial: 'Mess' over electronic bingo machines (06/09)

"In the first three months of 2008, charity bingo operators in Sacramento County say they took in a combined $1.5 million for local charities. The money was used to fund school band programs and sports...

BIA to review California off-reservation casino again (06/06)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs is giving an off-reservation casino in California a second review after it was rejected by former assistant secretary Carl Artman. In a notice being published in the Federal Register today,...

Bingo halls win ruling on electronic machines (06/06)

Bingo halls in California can continue to use electronic bingo machines thanks to a temporary restraining order issued by a federal judge on Thursday. Last month, attorney general Jerry Brown ordered 15 bingo halls...

Dry Creek Rancheria serving liquor at casino (06/03)

The Dry Creek Band of Pomo Indians can finally serve liquor at the River Rock Casino. Officials in Sonoma County, California, opposed the tribe's application for a liquor license. Opposition was dropped after the...

Redding Rancheria to scale back casino expansion (05/30)

The Redding Rancheria of California is scaling back a $90 million expansion of the Win-River Casino. The tribe planned a 170-room hotel, a 1,500-care parking garage and a new events center. But due to a...

Water agreement approved for Shingle Springs casino (05/30)

The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians of California has reached an agreement to supply water to its new casino. The tribe will pay $3.7 million in connection fees to get water from the El...

Sycuan Band draws attention with bingo machine (05/29)

State and federal regulators are looking at the electronic bingo machines being operated by the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation in California. The tribe offers about 300 of the machines at the Sycuan Resort...

City opposes Soboba Band land-into-trust (05/29)

The city council in San Jacinto, California, is opposing plans by the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians to acquire 535 acres for a gaming project. The city cited a rash of violence on the...

Letter: Twenty-Nine Palms casino costs taxpayers (05/28)

"I am not opposed to casinos and while I don’t think putting a casino in Twentynine Palms is a good idea for a variety of economic and sociological reasons, my letter is not about that....

Artman seeks to influence North Fork casino bid (05/23)

Assistant secretary Carl Artman has been busy in the weeks leading to his resignation today and his latest action could delay the off-reservation casino being sought by the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians of...

Editorial: Graton Rancheria casino threat intensifies (05/22)

"Grassroots efforts to stop a gigantic, Las Vegas-style casino complex from being built in Rohnert Park suffered a setback earlier this month when the U.S. Interior Department unexpectedly announced that it would dedicate 254 acres...

BIA ends review of Lower Lake Rancheria casino (05/20)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs has ended the environmental review for a controversial Bay Area casino. The Lower Lake Rancheria Koi Nation sought to build a casino on 65 acres near the Oakland International Airport....

California takes narrow view of compact ruling (05/20)

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) won't let being found in bad faith stop him from asking tribes to share their gaming revenues with the state. Schwarzenegger has required tribes to share Class III revenues if...

Dry Creek Rancheria chair builds gaming bridges (05/19)

As chairman of the Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians, Harvey Hopkins has been mending fences with neighbors who haven't been happy with the tribe's casino. Hopkins, who was first elected in 2004,...

City votes against Cloverdale Rancheria casino (05/15)

The city council in Cloverdale, California, voted 4-0 on a resolution against the casino sought by the Cloverdale Rancheria of Pomo Indians. The tribe wants to build a casino on about 80 acres in the...

Editorial: Premature compact for North Fork casino (05/15)

"Proponents of the ill-advised Highway 99 Indian casino in Madera County may have overplayed their hand when they cut an early deal with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on a revenue-sharing agreement with the state. The North...

Mohegan Tribe starts work on casino expansion (05/15)

The Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut broke ground on the final project of a $925 million casino expansion. The $682 million "Earth" expansion will bring a House of Blues music hall and a hotel with...

Shingle Springs Band offers preview of casino (05/14)

The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians plans to open the Red Hawk Casino in December. The tribe gave the media a preview of the facility, which broke ground earlier this year. The casino...

Legal Issues: Slip and fall at a tribal casino (05/13)

"Slip and fall at one of California's 57 Indian casinos and you might have a case in court. But hurt yourself at another of them, perhaps one just miles down the highway, and your claim...

Judge stays Rincon compact negotiation ruling (05/13)

A federal magistrate agreed to stay a decision that ordered California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) to negotiate a new compact with the Rincon Band of Mission Indians. On April 29, Judge William McCurine Jr. ruled...

California Senate passes compact negotiation bill (05/13)

The California Senate voted 31-4 on Monday to pass a bill that limits compact negotiations. The bill bars the governor from negotiating a compact for casino sites that are not yet in trust. Sen. Dean...

Graton Rancheria a step closer to first casino (05/08)

The Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, also known as the Coast Miwok Tribe, is one step closer to a casino in Sonoma County, California.. The tribe wants to build a 760,000-square-foot casino and 300-room hotel...

Huge hotel planed at United Auburn casino (05/08)

The United Auburn Indian Community of California hopes to break ground this summer on a huge hotel at the Thunder Valley Casino. The 24-story hotel would be the largest in the area. It includes...

Pauma Band scales back plans for casino resort (05/08)

The Pauma Band of Mission Indians is scaling back plans for its new casino resort. The $300 million project originally called for a 23-story hotel, a gaming floor and an outdoor amphitheater. In response...

Column: Neighbors not ready for Soboba casino (05/06)

"I sang the virtues of The Club at Soboba in San Jacinto. I pointed out that it is a smart marketing tool for Soboba tribal leaders in their campaign to annex land into their reservation...

Scotts Valley Band divided over casino proposal (05/05)

Some members of the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians don't agree with the tribe's proposal for a casino in North Richmond, California. Former chairman Les Miller and others accuse the tribe of reservation shopping....

Letter: Defending North Fork Rancheria compact (05/02)

"We are perplexed by The Bee's opposition to the tribal-state gaming compact recently signed by the North Fork Rancheria and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. The gaming facility proposed by the tribe has the support of the...

Rincon Band stands up to state in compact suit (05/02)

The Rincon Band of Mission Indians has won an important court ruling that could affect future compact negotiations in California. The tribe wanted to add up to 900 slot machines to its existing 1,600 machines...

Editorial: Schwarzenegger's bad gaming deal (05/01)

"Gamblers tell you there are no sure things, but it's a near certainty that a deal made this week by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger would increase pressure for a vast and ill-advised expansion of casino gambling...

Rincon Band wins ruling on compact negotiations (05/01)

A federal magistrate has ruled that California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) negotiated in bad faith with the Rincon Band of Mission Indians. Judge William McCurrine Jr. said Schwarzenegger can't force the tribe to share its...

Controversy over new California compacts (04/30)

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) can't seem to catch a break over his tribal gaming compacts. In February, four of his agreements were the subject of a costly statewide referendum. Voters approved the compacts but...

Editorial: Gaming standards for California tribes (04/29)

"California's gambling tribes compete furiously and disagree frequently about a wide range of issues. But they appear united when it comes to a belated attempt by the state's gambling regulators to impose minimum internal control...

Column: Soboba Band debuts $11M golf course (04/29)

"Soboba tribal officials made a compelling argument to annex land into their reservation for a new casino when they opened the $11 million Club at Soboba on Friday on the thoroughly renovated golf course they...

North Fork Rancheria and Wiyot Tribe team up for casino (04/29)

The North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians is and the Wiyot Tribe signed Class III gaming compacts with California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) on Monday. The deals allow the North Fork Rancheria to proceed with...

California tribes feel effects of slowing economy (04/28)

Two tribes in southern California say business at their casinos is down this year. The Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians predicts a slight drop in revenues at the Soboba Casino. "We have the same...

Study criticizes Scotts Valley casino proposal (04/28)

A study claims a casino built by the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians would increase traffic in the Bay Area. The tribe wants to build a 225,000-square-foot casino in unincorporated North Richmond. The gaming...

Twenty-Nine Palms Band hosts casino hearing (04/24)

The Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians hosted a public meeting last week on its proposed casino. The tribe plans a casino with 350 slot machines and some table games. The project includes a an...

Agua Caliente Band to share $1.3M with charities (04/24)

The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians will donate $1.3 million today, on the anniversary of its casino in Palm Springs, California. This year, 84 charities and civic groups in the region will receive money....

Soboba chair receives NIGA humanitarian award (04/24)

Robert Salgado, the chairman of the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians, received the Wendell Chino Humanitarian Award from the National Indian Gaming Association on Tuesday night. Salgado, 65, was selected for his decades of...

County responds to Enterprise Rancheria casino (04/23)

Supervisors in Yuba County, California, are submitting their comments on the draft environmental impact statement for the Enterprise Rancheria's proposed casino. The county is concerned about wastewater treatment and traffic at the casino site. The...

Water district to discuss Shingle Springs casino (04/23)

A water district in northern California will hold a workshop next Monday to discuss providing services to the Shingle Springs Rancheria. The El Dorado Irrigation District is limited to providing service to 40 homes on...

California lawmakers consider slot machine bill (04/23)

Lawmakers in California are debating a bill that would allow tribes who signed compacts in 1999 to offer up to 2,000 slot machines. A total of 61 tribes signed the compact that promised each up...

Southern California tribes compete for gamblers (04/21)

Tribes in southern California are launching new advertising campaigns in hopes of luring gamblers to their gaming facilities. The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians just opened a $300 million hotel at its Agua...

Candidates debate Graton Rancheria casino (04/18)

Three candidates for California State Senate debated the casino sought by the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria. Incumbent Carole Migden, a Democrat, said she opposes the casino. So does challenger Joe Nation, a Democrat. Mark...

Q&A with Agua Caliente chair about casino hotel (04/18)

The Palm Springs Desert Sun sits down with Richard Milanovich, the chairman of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, to talk about the grand opening of the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa's $300...

California lawmaker drops charitable gaming bill (04/18)

A California lawmaker has withdrawn a bill that would expand the charitable gaming industry. Sen. Darrell Steinberg, a Democrat and the incoming leader of the Senate, wanted to allow charities to operate electronic gaming machines....

Agua Caliente Band set to open casino hotel (04/17)

The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians is preparing to open a new hotel at its casino in Rancho Mirage, California. The $300 million Agua Caliente Casino Resort and Spa features a 230-room hotel,...

Bill to limit compact talks in California advances (04/16)

California's Senate Governmental Organization Committee voted 9-1 on Tuesday on a bill that restricts compact negotiations. SB1695 was introduced by Sen. Dean Florez, a Democrat. He is apparently targeting the casino sought by the...

Dry Creek Rancheria casino reports record revenue (04/15)

The Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians reported record revenue at its River Rock Casino in California. The casino took in $139.4 million in 2007, according to a filing with the U.S. Securities...

California inspects slots at tribal casinos (04/11)

An inspection of slot machines at tribal casinos in California turned up multiple problems, according to the state. Inspectors said 40 percent of machines were running obsolete software. This could result in shortchanges to gamblers,...

Opinion: Put an end to Indian gaming 'monopoly' (04/10)

"Few people realize that San Diego County is arguably the gambling capital of California. We have five first-rate hotel/casinos plus another three smaller casinos. More casinos are on the planning board. All are owned by...

9th Circuit hears California compact dispute (04/10)

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals heard oral arguments in a gaming compact case involving the Rincon Band of Mission Indians and the Colusa Band of Wintun Indians. The tribes signed compacts in 1999 that...

Shingle Springs Band to hire 1,750 for new casino (04/10)

The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians in California plans to hire about 1,750 for its new casino. The Red Hawk Casino opens this fall. Applications are being accepted online and at locations in the...

California tribes oppose charity gaming measure (04/07)

California tribes are opposing a bill that would expand gaming for the Catholic Church and other charitable groups. The churches and charities want to use electronic bingo machines and increase their payouts. But the California...

North Fork Rancheria faces long odds on casino (04/07)

The North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians is facing tribal opposition as it seeks to gain federal approval for an off-reservation casino. The tribe wants 305 acres placed in trust. The site is about 35...

Editorial: County not truthful in Mechoopda casino fight (04/07)

"A few days back, Paul McIntosh, the former chief administrative officer of Butte County, wrote a letter to the editor accusing this paper of misrepresenting the county's position in regard to the Mechoopda Indians. This...

Schwarzenegger opposes Scotts Valley casino (04/04)

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) opposes the casino being sought by the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians. The tribe wants to build a 225,000-square-foot casino in North Richmond. But Schwarzenegger says the site is...

Agua Caliente Band set for casino opening (04/04)

The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians is opening a $300 million of its casino in Rancho Mirage, California, in two weeks. The Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa will open to the public on...

California bill seeks to restrict tribal gaming sites (04/03)

A California lawmaker has introduced a bill that seeks to limit where a tribe can open an Indian gaming facility. SB1695 was introduced by Sen. Dean Florez, a Democrat. He is apparently targeting the...

BIA to make decision on Scotts Valley casino (03/31)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs is taking public comments on the casino sought by the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians in California. The tribe wants to build a 225,000-square-foot casino on about 30 acres...

County to sue Interior over Mechoopda casino (03/28)

Supervisors in Butte County, California, voted last week to sue the Interior Department over the casino sought by the Mechoopda Tribe of California The tribe wants to build a casino on 645 acres in the...

California tribes add slot machines to casinos (03/28)

Three California tribes whose gaming compacts were approved by state voters have added thousands of slot machines to their casinos. The Morongo Band of Mission Indians has added more than 900 machines at two casinos....

Agua Caliente Band to open new hotel at casino (03/28)

The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians is preparing for the opening of a $300 million hotel at its Agua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage, California. The 16-story, 340-room hotel isn't the only addition...

Santa Ysabel Band hires new casino manager (03/27)

The Santa Ysabel Band of Diegueño Indians has hired a new manager for the Santa Ysabel Casino and Resort. Don Trimble has managed other tribal gaming facilities. He says he was hired to get...

Pechanga Band closes two nightclubs at casino (03/26)

The Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians has closed two nightclubs at the Pechanga Resort & Casino. The Pechanga Development Corp. said the Eagle's Nest and the Silk club had too many alcohol-related problems. Silk...

Rincon Chair: Fulfill promises of California compacts (03/25)

"The tribal perspective was missing in a recent article on state Sen. Jim Battin's legislation that deals with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's administration's artificial limit on machine licenses. I. Nelson Rose, a professed expert on gambling,...

BIA rejects compact for Ewiiaapaayp casino (03/25)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs has rejected a Class III gaming compact for the Ewiiaapaayp Band of Kumeyaay Indians in California. The compact stated that the tribe would operate a casino on the Viejas Reservation....

San Pasqual Band's casino hotel draws objections (03/20)

Officials in San Diego County, California, are raising concerns about the hotel being proposed by the San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians. The county says the $85 million hotel next to the Valley View...

County approves Dry Creek Rancheria casino deal (03/19)

Supervisors in Sonoma County, California, voted 4-1 on Tuesday to approve a $100 million deal with the Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians. The agreement requires the tribe to spend about $75 million...

Editorial: Compromise on Buena Vista casino deal (03/17)

"The Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians is looking to open a casino on land that, according to a federal opinion, is legitimate American Indian land and eligible for such use. There's a lot of...

Editorial: Rumsey Band contributes to county (03/17)

"Thanks to the Rumsey Band of Wintun IndiansCache Creek Casino, transit service in Yolo County just got a lot bigger. The Yolo County Transit District announced last week that the tribe has agreed to provide...

Viejas Band plans $800M expansion of casino (03/13)

The Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians announced an $800 million expansion of its casino. The tribe selected Marnell Corrao Associates as its architect. The firm designed the Bellagio and Wynn casinos in Las Vegas....

County rejects its own offer to Buena Vista Band (03/12)

Supervisors in Amador County, California, once again deadlocked on a casino agreement with the Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians. At a meeting yesterday, the board rejected a deal that the county proposed just last...

Buena Vista casino agreement back on the table (03/11)

Supervisors in Amador County, California,will once again consider a casino agreement with theBuena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians. Last week, supervisors deadlocked by a 2-2 vote on the agreement. But the county made a counter-proposal,...

Chumash neighbors voted against gaming deals (03/10)

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians of California didn't have a gaming compact on the ballot last month but nearby voters expressed their displeasure with the tribe anyway. According to The Lompoc Record,...

California compacts strongly backed by neighbors (03/10)

Last month, voters in California approved four gaming compacts with 56 percent of the vote. But people who live nearby the casinos backed the agreements in higher margins, The Riverside Press-Enterprise reports. According to the...

Opinion: North Fork Rancheria casino a bad idea (03/10)

"There are many seductive arguments for supporting the Indian casino planned for 305 acres on Highway 99 north of Madera. You could get blinded by them if you weren't paying attention. The casino would...

County rejects Buena Vista casino agreement (03/05)

Supervisors in Amador County, California, killed a casino agreement with the Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians on Tuesday. The board debated whether to accept the deal, which comes with $18 million up front,...

California gaming compacts still being disputed (03/04)

California voters approved four gaming compacts a month ago but there's still some disagreement about some key provisions. The compacts require the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, the...

Santa Ysabel Band behind on gaming payments (03/04)

The Santa Ysabel Band of Diegueño Indians has failed to make over $400,000 in gaming payments to San Diego County and owes an undisclosed amount to the state of California. The tribe opened the...

Editorial: Study downsides of Chumash casino (03/03)

"With more than a bit of fanfare, a local taxpayers group has released a report touting the economic benefits of the Chumash Casino Resort in the Santa Ynez Valley. That the Chumash Casino is...

Schwarzenegger won't help county fight tribe (03/03)

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) won't help a county fight the Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians. Schwarzenegger's legal department said it would be "inappropriate" to join Amador County's lawsuit against the Interior Department. A...

Cost of Graton Rancheria casino could top $1B (03/03)

The leader of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria in California says the tribe's proposed casino could cost more than $1 billion. Chairman Greg Sarris said costs are rising in part due to the tribe's...

Shingle Springs Band marks casino milestone (02/29)

The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians in California is moving closer to opening its first casino. The tribe placed the final beam for the Foothill Oaks Casino earlier this week. "This is a dream...

Buena Vista casino deal up for debate again (02/29)

The board of supervisors in Amador County, California, will once again consider a casino agreement with the Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians. The tribe wants to build a Class III facility with 950 slot...

Editorial: Public should vote on Indian gaming (02/28)

"Sonoma County residents were cheated out of a chance to voice their opinions on the critical issue of local casino development this week when the Board of Supervisors turned thumbs down on a proposal for...

California cities seek more consultation by BIA (02/28)

Local governments in California are asking the Bureau of Indian Affairs to be consulted about gaming decisions. The League of California Cities and the California State Association of Counties plan to meet with assistant secretary...

County delays decision on Buena Vista casino (02/27)

The board of supervisors in Amador County, California, voted 3-2 on Tuesday to delay action on a casino deal with the Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians. The tribe wants to pay the county...

San Pasqual casino hotel reserved for high rollers (02/26)

The San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians is building a 161-room hotel at its Valley View Casino but you won't be able to stay there unless you're a high roller. The tribe intends to...

Editorial: Buena Vista Band forces will on county (02/26)

"In Amador County, all the smart money says take the deal. Allow the Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians to build a casino near the hamlet of Ione, 40 miles southeast of Sacramento. In exchange,...

California county weighs Indian gaming referendum (02/26)

Voters in Sonoma County, California, might be asked to decide whether they want more casinos in their backyard. The county is home to the River Rock Casino, owned by the Dry Creek Band of Pomo...

San Pasqual Band appeals slot machine lawsuit (02/25)

The San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians is asking the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals to reinstate a lawsuit over the number of slot machines at its casino. The tribe's 1999 compact theoretically allows 2,000...

Gaming tribes paid for Republican mailer (02/21)

Four California tribes whose gaming compacts were on the February 5 ballot paid for a Republican party mailer. The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, the Pechanga Band of...

Twentynine Palms Band finalizing casino report (02/20)

The Twentynine Palms Band of Mission Indians is finalizing an environmental assessment for its proposed casino in southern California. The Nuwu Casino Resort and RV Park would feature a 60,000-square-foot casino, 100-space RV park, restaurant,...

Bill allows California tribes 2,000 slot machines (02/15)

California State Sen. Jim Battin, a Republican, has introduced legislation to allow tribes who signed compacts in 1999 to operate up to 2,000 slot machines. The 1999 compacts with former governor Gray Davis (D) promised...

California tribes open annual gaming conference (02/14)

The 13th annual Western Indian Gaming Conference> kicked off in Palm Springs, California, on Wednesday. Richard Milanovich, the chairman of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, welcomed tribal leaders to the Palm Springs...

Santa Ysabel Band late with gaming payments (02/14)

The San Ysabel Band of Diegueño Indians has fallen behind in its gaming payments to San Diego County, California. The tribe's 2003 compact requires payments to the county for the impacts of its Santa Ysabel...

Concerns raised over water line at Pechanga casino (02/12)

The Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians is seeking to install a water pipeline for its casino in Temecula, California. The line would irrigate the new golf course at the Pechanga Resort & Casino. The...

California tribes meet for gaming conference (02/11)

California tribes are meeting later this week for the 13th annual Western Indian Gaming Conference. The California Nations Indian Gaming Association, which represents more than 60 tribes with and without casinos, hosts the event....

Opinion: California tribes have political power (02/11)

"Last fall, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger unexpectedly announced, immediately before the Legislature recessed for the November elections, that he had signed new compacts with five tribes. The tribes - the Morongo Band of Mission Indians,...

Editorial: California tops for legal gaming (02/11)

"Propositions 94, 95, 96 and 97 - all of which voters approved by 12 percent margins (56-44) on Tuesday - involve a lot more than four Southern California tribes expand from 8,000 to 17,000 the...

California tribes rush to install slot machines (02/08)

Fresh off their big win on Super Tuesday, four California tribes are already installing new slot machines at their casinos. Voters approved compacts for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Morongo Band...

California voters approve gaming compacts (02/06)

Four California tribes won resounding support for their gaming compacts on Tuesday. While ballots are still being counted, results from the Secretary of State show that at least 55 percent of voters backed compacts...

City concerned about Soboba Band casino plans (02/06)

Officials in San Jacinto, California, are raising concerns about the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians' plan to acquire land for a casino and hotel. The city wants the Bureau of Indian Affairs to address "potential...

California voters to decide on four compacts (02/05)

Voters in California are going to the polls today to decide on four controversial gaming compacts Propositions 94-97 ask voters to approve or reject compacts for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the...

Opinion: Interior bungled California compacts (02/05)

"On February 5, 2008, Californians will vote on whether four tribes can triple the number of slot machines in their casinos, from 8,000 to 25,000. But, no matter who wins, the losers will sue....

Column: Big money at stake in California fight (02/04)

"The most confusing measures on Tuesday's state ballot are the four Indian gambling propositions. But, cutting through all the fabrication and jargon, there's one simple way to look at this. The central question is: Should...

Opinion: Vote yes on California gaming compacts (02/04)

"As the principal negotiator for two of the four tribes whose amended gaming agreements are on Tuesday's ballot as Propositions 94 to 97, I am appalled that the IJ opposed the agreements based purely on...

Opinion: Negotiate better deal with gaming tribes (02/04)

"Remember when Californians voted in 1998 to approve Indian gaming? Most of us thought we were giving Native Americans throughout the state an opportunity to lift themselves out of decades of poverty. Now, 10 years...

Opinion: Gaming tribes are rolling in money (02/04)

"As Super Tuesday looms, mail boxes across California have been stuffed with slick fliers, plus a thick Voter Information Guide, about Propositions 94-97, which ask voters whether or not they approve new gaming compacts that...

Opinion: California monitors gaming tribes (02/04)

"The North County Times recently published commentary by John Zaitz and Cheryl Schmit on the Indian gaming compacts. I want to reassure you and your readers that all of Gov. Schwarzenegger's amended compacts allow the...

Opinion: California compacts a jackpot for state (02/04)

"Faced with a $14.5 billion deficit, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger already announced we may have no choice but to release tens of thousands of prisoners early. He has declared a "fiscal emergency" and proposes major cuts...

Opinion: Vote no on California gaming compacts (02/04)

"It is very hard to believe the ads against the four Indian gaming propositions — 94, 95, 96 and 97. It is also hard to believe the ads in favor of the measures. It is...

Opinion: Indian gaming not the only solution (02/04)

"This Super Tuesday, Feb. 5, one of the most controversial contentions coming to a polling station near you is Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's personal cause célèbre-Indian gaming. Propositions 94-97 would allow four reservation casinos in San...

California tribes could share $10.2B under compacts (02/01)

An economist hired by four California tribes says they could share up to $10.2 billion under their Class III gaming compacts. Economist Alan Meister, who puts together the annual Indian Gaming Report, was given...

California Vote: Benefits for the Big Four tribes (01/31)

"As the gaming tribes the Pala Band of Mission Indians and the United Auburn Indian Community, is tagged, “It’s amazing what millions in political contributions can get you.” But if you’re like most California...

California Vote: The cost of casino expansion (01/31)

"Critics of four ballot measures that could drum up as much as $9 billion in state operating revenue over the next two decades say those agreements are really nothing more than sweetheart deals struck...

Editorial: Vote yes on California gaming compacts (01/31)

"Propositions 94 through 97 on the California primary ballot on Tuesday are all about the same thing: They allow four Indian tribes to increase the number of slot machines at their existing casinos. The new...

Florida court hears Seminole compact lawsuit (01/31)

The Florida Supreme Court on Wednesday heard a lawsuit over the legality of the Seminole Tribe's Class III gaming compact The tribe reached the deal with Gov. Charlie Crist (R). It authorizes slot machines...

Twenty-Nine Palms Chairman: A good neighbor (01/30)

"To the citizens, business and civic leaders of Twentynine Palms who joined us for our recent media event at our reservation announcing our NŸwŸ Casino Resort and RV Park project, we thank you for coming...

Opinion: Vote no on California gaming compacts (01/30)

"Seven propositions will appear on the Feb. 5 ballot. Among the most controversial are four propositions dealing with Indian casinos. The four measures, Propositions 94, 95, 96 and 97, ask voters to approve four gaming...

County weighs appeal of Ione Band gaming ruling (01/30)

Officials in Amador County, California, are weighing an appeal after losing a court case over the casino sought by the Ione Band of Miwok Indians. In December, a federal judge dismissed the county's suit against...

California tribes divided in compact fight (01/29)

Tribes in California are no longer united on gaming issues, Manuel Hamilton, the vice chairman of the Ramona Band of Cahuilla Indians says. Hamilton isn't taking sides in the fight over four controversial Class III...

Editorial: Vote yes on Indian gaming compacts (01/29)

"Vote Yes on Propositions 94, 95, 96 and 97. The Indian gaming compacts that have already been negotiated and approved by the California Legislature and signed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger will pump billions into the...

Opinions: How to vote on California gaming pacts (01/28)

February 5 is fast approaching for voters in California. If you're unsure about ballot propositions for four gaming tribes, here's some advice on both sides of the debate. The Banning/Beaumont Record Gazette urges a...

Editorial: Vote yes on California gaming compacts (01/25)

"Four statewide propositions on the Feb. 5 ballot would allow four Southern California Indian tribes to increase the number of slot machines at their casinos on reservation land. Propositions 94, 95, 96 and 97 affirm...

Opinion: Gaming hasn't cured tribal woes (01/24)

"There are 105 tribal entities in California with approximately 56,158 tribal members. There are 31 gaming tribal casinos. Yes, Indian gaming revenue has been used to build houses, schools, roads and sewer and water...

County weighs challenge to Mechoopda casino (01/24)

Officials in Butte County, California, are weighing a challenge to the Mechoopda Tribe's proposed casino. The Bureau of Indian Affairs has issued a finding of no significant impact for the project. The next step...

Poll shows tight battle over California compacts (01/24)

Only 42 percent of California voters support four controversial gaming compacts, according to a new Field Poll. The poll showed 37 percent of respondents opposed the compacts that are on the February 5 ballot. Another...

Jackson Rancheria denies casino layoff rumors (01/23)

The Jackson Rancheria of California says it won't be laying off any casino employees. Rumors of layoffs surfaced after the tribe shut down part of the gaming floor at the Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel....

Editorial: Vote yes on Propositions 94-97 (01/23)

"Earlier this month, the citizens of California were given the news that their state was suffering from a whopping budget deficit of approximately $14 billion. As a means of comparison, this amount is approximately equal...

San Manuel Band compact approved by BIA (01/23)

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians can add up to 5,500 more slot machines now that its Class III gaming compact has been approved by the federal government. The Bureau of Indian Affairs published...

County weighs vote on Graton Rancheria casino (01/23)

Supervisors in Sonoma County, California, are debating a referendum on the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria’s proposed casino. A local attorney is leading the push to put the casino before county voters. But any referendum...

Spending on California compacts tops $100M (01/22)

Supporters and opponents of four Class III gaming compacts have spent more than $100 million to influence California voters. Propositions 94 through 97 are on the February 5 ballot. They ask voters to support of...

Editorials: Vote 'yes' on California compacts (01/22)

Five California newspapers are urging voters to vote "yes" on four Class III gaming compacts that are on the February 5 ballot. The Los Angeles Times says the deals benefit the state and the tribes....

Editorial: Vote yes on Big Four gaming compacts (01/21)

"The Star supports the Indian gambling compact amendments the state Legislature and governor approved last year for four tribes and, thus, supports yes votes on Propositions 94, 95, 96 and 97 on the Feb. 5...

Sen. Clinton and Sen. Obama spar over gaming (01/18)

As the Democratic candidates head into the Nevada and California votes, Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-New York) says Sen. Barack Obama (D-Illinois) doesn't support the gaming industry. Clinton told The Los Angeles Times she supports...

Swimmer cites investigation of misplaced compacts (01/18)

Special Trustee Ross Swimmer said the Interior Department is investigating how four controversial gaming compacts were misplaced in Washington, D.C. Swimmer doesn't have any direct authority over gaming matters. But he told The Palm...

BIA clears way for Mechoopda Tribe casino (01/17)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs has issued a finding of significant environmental impact for the casino proposed by the Mechoopda Tribe of California. Notice of the FONSI was published in The Oroville Mercury-Register, the paper...

Police shoot man outside Agua Caliente casino (01/17)

A suspect under multi-jurisdictional investigation was shot and killed by police outside the casino owned by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians of California. Authorities attempted to arrest Nino Joseph Garcia, 24, as...

Column: BIA helps gaming tribes get richer (01/17)

"If there's one thing California voters pride themselves on, it's their ability to make their own laws via ballot initiatives. A corollary of this is their ability to use popular referenda for vetoing laws passed...

Opinion: Gaming compacts will help California (01/16)

"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has declared a "fiscal emergency" because the state faces a $14.5 billion deficit. He has said we may have no choice but to release 22,000 nonviolent offenders from prison early, and he...

Five California tribes agree to abide by MICS (01/16)

Five California tribes have agreed to comply with the National Indian Gaming Commission's minimum internal control standards, or MICS. The MICS cover nearly every aspect of a Class III operation. But the D.C. Circuit Court...

Jackson Rancheria relocates part of casino (01/15)

The Jackson Rancheria of northern California relocated part of its casino after structural defects were discovered at the facility. A 28,000-square-foot portion of the gaming floor at the Jackson Rancheria Casino & Hotel is affected....

Gaming compacts were sent to wrong room at DOI (01/14)

Four controversial gaming compacts were sent to the wrong room at the main Interior Department building in Washington, D.C., but no one appears to know why it took so long for them to end up...

Column: Gambling on California's future (01/14)

"To watch the endless television ads, one would think that the four Indian gaming measures on the Feb. 5 ballot were all about raising money to save the state budget. In fact, tribal casinos will...

Big Sandy Rancheria casino expansion stirs debate (01/11)

The Big Sandy Rancheria Band of Western Mono Indians is planning to expand its small casino but not everyone is happy with the work. The tribe operates the Mono Wind Casino on its reservation. Exploratory...

Opinion: Support California gaming compacts (01/10)

"These days, one of the greatest threats to the public’s safety is our state’s budget crisis. It can jeopardize funding for all manner of police, fire and emergency protection services in communities throughout the...

Cabazon Band installs virtual poker tables (01/10)

The Cabazon Band of Mission Indians is one of the first in Indian Country to offer automated "virtual" poker tables. The southern California tribe installed five PokerPro machines at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino...

Editorial: Time to end dream of Barstow casinos (01/10)

"Though supporters are reluctant to admit it, the U.S. Department of the Interior’s rejections of the applications to three tribes to take land in Barstow for off-reservation casinos brings about a likely end to this...

Commentary: Gaming expansion in California (01/09)

"By the time voters approach their touch-screen booths on Feb. 5, they’ll probably know what there is to know about Indian gaming compacts and the state of California. The tribes and their opponents will...

BIA says no to off-reservation casinos in Barstow (01/08)

Three tribes sought off-reservation casinos in Barstow, California. The Bureau of Indian Affairs rejected all three last week. The Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeno Indians and the Big Lagoon Rancheria sought side-by-side casinos...

Editorial: Vote yes on tribal gaming compacts (01/07)

"The decision on Props. 94 through 97 on the Feb. 5 ballot depends on voters sorting through a battle between competing special interests to find the public's stake. One crucial point should make that task...

Commentary: Tribal spending on compact referendum (01/07)

"On Friday, the Pechanga Band of Temecula, one of the big four tribes who stand to gain from passage of Propositions 94 to 97 and 17,000 new slot machines, contributed $30.8 million in support of...

Editorial: Bungling of California gaming compacts (01/07)

"Here's what happened. After the Legislature approved the compacts last summer, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger sent them to the California secretary of state's office. Even though the compacts were not set to become law until Jan....