A bill that would set aside $250,000 a year for health facilities, economic development and law enforcement near Whiteclay is headed for a debate on the floor of the Nebraska Legislature.

Four liquor stores in Whiteclay sell millions of cans of beer every year, mostly to members of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. The town is within walking distance of the Pine Ridge Reservation.

"I think it is economic racism at its worst. It's time to do something," said Judi gaiashkibos, executive director of the Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs, at a hearing yesterday, The Lincoln Journal Star reported.

The $250,000 is slightly less than the amount of taxes that alcohol sales in the Whiteclay area generate every year, a lawmaker said.

Get the Story:
Whiteclay bill likely to get debate (The Lincoln Journal Star 2/18)

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