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California Group Plans Ambitious Casino Initiative21 January 2002SAN DIEGO, California –– As reported by the Associated Press: "A secretive group is planning a $2 million petition drive for an initiative that would break state Indian tribes' monopoly on gambling and make California the third state to allow Nevada-style casinos. "Little disclosure about the measure's backers is required at this stage. That leaves horse tracks and card clubs, who have much to gain from the initiative, unsure whether to take it seriously. "…It would mount an end-run around years of ballot fights and state compacts that allow slots and some card games on California tribal lands. "The measure would lift those restrictions for all 45 tribal casinos, 113 card clubs and all the state's 34 horse tracks, putting anyone with a gambling license on equal footing. "…With backers choosing to remain anonymous, it's not possible to verify whether they have the millions of dollars needed to mount what is sure to be a costly ballot fight if the measure qualifies. "…Even at this early stage, the initiative has touched a nerve. The Los Angeles Times urged Californians who oppose nearly unlimited gambling to refuse to sign the petition…" |