Environment
Pine Ridge considers lifting ban on alcohol sales


Residents of the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota are debating whether to lift a 115-year-old ban on the sale of alcohol.

Supporters want to offer liquor to patrons at the casino. They also want to generate tax revenues through the sale of alcohol. Proceeds would go to alcohol treatment centers, youth programs and law enforcement.

But in the past, most residents have voted against going wet. A reservation wide referendum failed in 1980. Apparently, liquor was allowed for one year in 1969.

Several meetings have been held around the reservation to debate the issue. At least one community has voted against lifting the ban.

Get the Story:
Tribe may bid goodbye to dry (The Rapid City Journal 1/8)

Relevant Links:
Oglala Sioux Tribe - http://www.lakotamall.com/oglalasiouxtribe