Rincon Band wins ruling on compact negotiations

Thursday, May 1, 2008  

A federal magistrate has ruled that California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) negotiated in bad faith with the Rincon Band of Mission Indians.

Judge William McCurrine Jr. said Schwarzenegger can't force the tribe to share its gaming revenues without offering a "meaningful concession." Additional slot machines isn't enough since all other tribes operate them, the judge said in a 25-page decision.

McCurrine ordered the state to negotiate a new deal within 60 days or he would appoint a mediator. The state intends to challenge the decision.

The lawsuit was championed by former Rincon Chair Vernon Wright, who died last month after a battle with cancer. He was 53.

Get the Story:
Court decision questions governor's deals with tribes (The San Diego Union-Tribune 5/1)