Artist's rendering of the proposed North Fork Rancheria casino. Image from North Fork Casino Environmental Impact Statement
California Gov. Jerry Brown (D) had the authority to approve an off-reservation casino for the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians, a state judge ruled. A group called Stand Up for California and casino opponents questioned Brown's ability to concur with the federal government's approval of the project. But Judge Michael Jurkovich, said it was clear that the governor has the power to negotiate Class III gaming compacts, subject to approval by the state Legislature. The tribe's compact has been approved by the Legislature. And it was allowed to go into effect by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Stand Up for California, however, collected enough signatures to put the compact to a vote of the people. The tribe is trying to block the referendum in court. Get the Story:
Judge upholds decision allowing Madera casino project (The Fresno Bee 3/15) Superior Court Decision:
Stand Up For California v. California (March 3, 2014) Bureau of Indian Affairs Documents:
Press Release | Fact Sheet: North Fork Rancheria Decision | Section 20 Determination: North Fork Rancheria Federal Register Notices:
Indian Gaming (October 22, 2013)
Land Acquisitions; North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians of California (December 3, 2012)
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