At least four tribes are suing the state of California in hopes of adding more slot machines to their casinos.

The tribes signed compacts in 1999 that promised them up to 2,000 slot machines. But a statewide cap has prevented them from reaching the limit.

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) is willing to allow more slot machines but only if the tribes renegotiate their compacts and share revenues with the state. The Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians, the San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians, the Colusa Indian Community and the Picayune Rancheria say they shouldn't have to strike new deals.

So far, tribes have been winning the battle. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals said the tribes can sue the state without involving all of the other signatories to the 1999 compact.

One federal judge ruled that the state negotiated in bad faith with the Rincon Band. Schwarzenegger is appealing the decision.

Another federal judge sided with the Colusa and Picayune tribes in a ruling over the statewide cap. Schwarzenegger plans to appeal after a final judgment is issued in the case.

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Tribes seek more slot machines (The San Diego Union-Tribune 6/7)