The Tigua Tribe of Texas is defending its traditions as lawmakers consider bills that would authorize Indian gaming in the state.

Tribal elections are only open to adult men, an issue that has concerned at least one lawmaker. Women were offered an option to vote but turned it down, said Lt. Gov. Carlos Hisa.

"They refused because by doing so they would be breaking tradition," Hisa told The El Paso Times.

Hisa said the tribe is bringing a delegation of women to the state Capitol to meet with Rep. Valinda Bolton (D). She said she is interested in learning more about tribal culture although a colleague said she appears to be opposed to the gaming push.

On Monday, lawmakers will consider bills to allow the Tigua Tribe and the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe to reopen their casinos. NewspaperTree reports on some of the latest developments.

Get the Story:
Tigua gaming: Legislator concerned that women can't vote (The El Paso Times 3/26)
Tigua options tighten, but gambling hopes remain alive (NewspaperTree 3/25)