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)
Related Stories:
North Fork Rancheria sues to block
referendum on casino deal (3/12)