California lawmakers wrapped up work on Thursday by rejecting a tribal gaming compact and refusing to call votes on other negotiated agreements.
The Assembly voted 35-23 on a new compact for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. It was six votes short of the majority needed to approve a deal that would have given the tribe the right to offer up to 5,000 slot machines.
Democrats objected amid intense lobbying by labor unions, who opposed the compact.
"The Democrats made a decision that they're not going to support their Indian friends, but their union masters," said Republican Sen. Jim Battin, according to various news reports.
Other agreements for the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, the Pechanga Band of Luiseńo Indians, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation and the Yurok Tribe weren't called for a vote. Democrats said they were brought too late in the session to gain serious consideration.
The tribes and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) said they will continue to press for the compacts next year.
Get the Story:Slot deal dead - for now (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 9/1)
Councilman asked for tribe deal delay (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 9/1)
Governor's gambling deals halted (MediaNews 9/1)
Indian gaming is dealt big setback in California (Copley News Service 9/1)
Indian-state gaming pacts fade (The San Bernardino County Sun 9/1)
Indian Casino Measures Stall in Legislature (The Los Angeles Times 9/1)
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Casino compacts blocked (The Sacramento Bee 9/1)
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