Off-reservation gaming still generates controversy

Tuesday, August 2, 2005  

Sen. John McCain (R-Arizona) and Rep. Richard Pombo (R-California) plan to introduce legislation to reform the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act in response to off-reservation gaming, Copley News Service reports.

McCain, the chairman of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, has questioned the manner in which tribes have acquired land for gaming. He says Congress never envisioned off-reservation casino proposals.

Pombo, the chairman of the House Resources Committee, is also concerned. He is circulating a draft bill that would limit the ability of tribes to acquire non-reservation land for casinos.

Off-reservation casino proposals have generated controversy in California, Ohio, Illinois, Colorado and New York. Federal officials have said there isn't a major problem, and most tribal leaders agree.

Get the Story:
Showdown looms over casinos off tribal lands (Copley News Service 8/1)