Two more California tribes went before lawmakers to seek approval of their gaming compacts. The Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians and the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians testified yesterday. They followed the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians and the Yurok Tribe, whose leaders testified on Tuesday. The Pechanga compact came under scrutiny by labor unions. But the unions said they supported the nearly identical San Manuel agreement. The tribes signed the agreements last year with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R). The deals allow for more slot machines in exchange for a cut of the revenues. State estimates say the tribes could contribute up to $500 million a year. The Morongo Band said the state, as well as tribes, are missing out on opportunities without approval of the new compacts. Get the Story:
Tribes: Delays will cost state millions (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 4/12)
Lawmakers, unions spar over compacts (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 4/12)
Pact on Pechanga casinos fails to win over unions (The Riverside Press-Enterprise 4/12)
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Casinos heavy-handed bosses or kind patrons? You decide (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 4/12)
Jacob wants Sycuan compact redone (Copley News Service 4/12)
Casino expansion debate resumes (AP 4/12)