House vote set on Michigan off-reservation gaming bills

Wednesday, June 25, 2008  

The House is set to vote today on two controversial off-reservation gaming bills.

H.R.2176 and H.R.4115 settle land claims for the Bay Mills Indian Community and the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, respectively. The bills allow the tribe to acquire new properties, away from their existing reservations, and open casinos.

The bills have generated a flurry of lobbying activity and some big disagreements among Democrats, some of whom support the measure. Several Michigan lawmakers, as well as 22 members of the Congressional Black Caucus, oppose the bills.

In the past, Congress has settled land claims that paved the way for casinos. The Seneca Nation opened two off-reservation casinos in New York through a land claim settlement.

The House session starts at 10am today, according to the latest daily leader.

Get the Story:
Pelosi to grant vote on Indian gaming bill benefiting Rep. Dingell’s district (The Hill 6/25)
U.S. House to vote on casino bill (The Port Huron Times Herald 6/25)