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DECEMBER 12, 2000

The Senate on Monday approved a bill to settle outstanding claims of the Torres-Martinez Band of Desert Cahuilla Tribe of California, clearing the way for Presidential approval.

The bill had been stalled for several years in Congress, in part due to lobbying by a tribe opposed to it. But the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians dropped their opposition this year.

The bill pays the $14 million in damages for having 11,800 acres of its land covered by the Salton Sea. It also allows tribe to purchase land for casino development.

The tribe would have to sign a compact with the state in order to begin gambling. The tribe would choose a site located near Interstate 10 for a casino and other development. Their reservation is remote and tribal members have expressed hope for what the settlement can provide.

The House approved the bill in September.

Get the Bill:
To provide for the settlement of issues and claims related to the trust lands of the Torres-Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians, and for other purposes (H.R.4643)

Get the Story:
Torres-Martinez land, cash settlement wins Senate OK (The Desert Sun 12/12)
Gaming compact, site next steps on tribe’s list (The Desert Sun 12/12)
Members of Torres-Martinez welcome news of act’s passage (The Desert Sun 12/12)

Related Stories:
Torres-Martinez bill awaits vote (Enviro 11/07)
Torres-Martinez await compact (Money Matters 10/02)
Torres-Martinez bill passes House (Tribal Law 09/19)
Cabazon drop opposition to bill (Tribal Law 07/27)
Tribes talk settlement (Tribal Law 07/18)
Tribe revitalizes (Money Matters 07/12)
Tribe begins power project (Money Matters 06/21)
Bill would compensate Cahuilla (Tribal Law 06/14)