Tribes consider fight against new compacts


Two California tribes are "thinking" about financing a challenge to new gaming compacts signed by four tribes.

The Pala Band of Mission Indians and the United Auburn Indian Community signed compacts in 2004. They were among the first to reach a deal with Gov. Arnold Scwharzenegger (R).

But those two tribes don't like the new compacts that Scwharzenegger signed with the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians and the Sycuan Band of Kumeyaay Indians. So they are "thinking" about backing a ballot challenge, a spokesperson for Pala and Auburn said.

Compact opponents were given approval to collect signatures for the ballot referendum. But even if they get enough support, the Bureau of Indian Affairs could still approve the new compacts.

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Expansion may go to ballot (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 8/8)