Opinion: Arizona tribes must keep promise to voters on gaming

Monday, December 5, 2011  

"In early October, leaders from Indian communities and the state testified before a congressional committee about House Resolution 2938, legislation sponsored by Congressman Trent Franks to clarify the Gila Bend Indian Reservation Lands Replacement Act of 1986.

Contrary to claims made by the Tohono O'odham Nation -- the tribe seeking to open a new off-reservation casino near Glendale -- HR 2938 would not take away any of its lands. Instead, the bill makes clear that the 1986 act is not a "golden ticket" that allows Tohono O'odham to conduct off-reservation gaming far from its reservation and outside of its aboriginal lands.

In November, the House Natural Resources Committee, which exercises jurisdiction on the issue, approved HR 2938 by a bipartisan vote of 32-11. We are hopeful that in the coming weeks the full House will approve this much-needed legislation."

Get the Story:
Diane Enos and William Rhodes: We must keep pledge to Arizona on gaming (The Arizona Republic 12/4)

Also Today:
HEAR ME OUT: Should casinos be allowed in Glendale? (ABC15.com 12.4)

Related Stories:
Arizona tribes back at war on off-reservation casino measure (11/18)
House committee passes bill to block Tohono O'odham casino (11/17)
Tohono O'odham Nation awaits hearing on gaming litigation (11/10)
Tohono O'odham Nation could expand scope of casino project (11/8)
Tohono O'odham Nation gives grant to casino-friendly city (11/4)
Candidate seeks talks for Tohono O'odham Nation casino (11/1)