Schwarzenegger opposes use of gaming money for communities

Tuesday, August 17, 2010  

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) is opposing the addition of $30 million to the state's budget to help communities near casinos.

Tribes with Class III compacts that were signed in 1999 pay into the Indian Gaming Special Distribution Fund. Some of the money addresses the impacts of casinos on communities but Schwarzenegger vetoed the use of $30 million in 2007 and 2008.

Lawmakers want to replace the money in the current budget but Schwarzenegger doesn't think that's a good idea. Lawmakers are also worried that the Special Distribution Fund will run out of money as early as 2013.

Part of the reason the Special Distribution Fund is losing money is that Schwarzenegger signed new Class III compacts that require tribes to pay into the state's general fund.

Get the Story:
California lawmakers, Schwarzenegger disagree on casino-mitigation money (The Riverside Press-Enterprise 8/17)