Opponents of the Enterprise Rancheria casino say the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Salazar v. Patchak will help their cause.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs has yet to make a final decision on the tribe's land-into-trust application. But foes say the agency will be required to consider a wide range of views as a result of the ruling.

"This changes everything. Before this ruling, local people were shut out of the process. This ruling requires the federal government to consider local input from citizens," Josh Cook, a political consultant, told The Marysville/Yuba City Appeal-Democrat. "Now the process will include the input of citizens."

The BIA approved the environmental impact statement for the tribe's casino last year. Gov. Jerry Brown (D) has veto authority over the project but hasn't indicated when he will make a decision.

Even if he does approve the casino, the tribe's land-into-trust application will be considered under a separate process. BIA regulations allow challenges within 30 days of a final decision but the Supreme Court's decision opens the door to lawsuits within six years.

Get the Story:
Supreme Court ruling big for Yuba County casino outcome (The Marysville/Yuba City Appeal-Democrat 6/21)

Supreme Court Decision:
Salazar v. Patchak (June 18, 2012)

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Letter: Enterprise Rancheria casino good for community (4/16)