Pombo releases new draft of off-reservation bill

Tuesday, November 1, 2005

Rep. Richard Pombo (R-California), the chairman of the House Resources Committee, released a new draft of his off-reservation gaming bill. It would make a number of changes to Section 20 of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

According to the Associated Press, the bill would:
• Bar tribes from moving across state lines to build off-reservation casinos.
• Require Interior to determine that an off-reservation casino is in the "best interests" of the tribe and the surrounding community.
• Require the state governor and the state legislature to concur with Interior's determination.
• Require approval by nearby tribes of Interior's determination.
• Require a vote by local communities.
• Allow tribes to host other tribal casinos on their land.

Get the Story:
Pombo proposes stronger community role in off-reservation casinos (AP 10/31)