California tribes turning to lawmakers on gaming

Thursday, August 12, 2004  

California tribes opposed to a ballot initiative that would end their slot machine monopoly are enlisting the support of state lawmakers.

Republican Sen. Jim Battin, a long-time supporter of tribal rights, wrote to constituents, telling them to oppose Proposition 68. He came under fire for writing the letter on official stationery.

Now, the spouse of a lawmaker in line for president of the state Senate is being criticized for working for tribes. Leo Briones, husband of Democrat Sen. Martha Escutia, drafted a letter on official stationery in which several lawmakers urge Latino voters to oppose Prop 68. Critics say his role is a conflict of interest.

Prop 68 would force every tribe to share 25 percent of slot machines revenues with the state. If, for any reason, the tribes refuse, a total of 16 card clubs and racetracks would be allowed to operate slots. Most of the facilities are in urban areas.

Get the Story:
Escutia's Husband Paid by Tribes (The Los Angeles Times 8/12)
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Environmentalists fear slot machines (The San Francisco Chronicle 8/12)