Businesses in the nearby town of Whiteclay have been profiting long enough on the sale of alcohol to tribal members. While there is controversy in having a government-run business sell a harmful substance to its people, it is no different from what is happening currently in alcohol-control states such as Utah. In the 18 alcohol-control states, the government controls all or part of alcohol sales and some control distribution and wholesaling. This type of operation allows a higher level of supervision by governing bodies, and in the case of the Oglala Sioux ensures that all the profits aid tribal members. Having the ability to fund the planned alcohol treatment centers and prevention programs far outweighs any perceived risk.Get the Story:
Travis Schumacher: Pleased by alcohol vote (The Lincoln Journal Star 9/9)
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