Tigua Tribe included in latest Texas gaming bill

Thursday, April 30, 2009  

The Tigua Tribe of Texas could reopen its casino under the latest draft of a gaming bill in Texas.

The tribe faced opposition after lawmakers learned Tigua women don't have the right to vote in elections. Then, criminal record of the tribe's governor became an issue.

“I believe with Tiguas in the big bill, the issue becomes gaming and taking the issue to the voters which is a good thing,” state Rep. Norma Chavez (D) told Newspaper Tree. “We are obviously not pushing a Tigua-only bill because that becomes the entire focus of the conversation instead of the legislation. This way we are able to focus on economic development and voters deciding.”

The bill would allow the Alabama Coushatta Tribe to reopen its casino and authorize Class III gaming for the Kickapoo Tribe. The tribes would also be able to open casinos within 150 miles of their reservation, a provision not available for the Tiguas.

Get the Story:
Tiguas still have a chip on the table as gambling bill nears completion (Newspaper Tree 4/30)