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Off-reservation proposal divides tribes

WASHINGTON, DC – As reported by the Reno Gazette-Journal: "A proposal to restrict development of new Indian casinos on off- reservation sites has exposed deep divisions among Indian tribes across the country.

"Dozens of tribes that want to build casinos -- in some cases, hundreds of miles from their reservations -- have balked at the plan being considered by the Department of Interior, which oversees Indian gaming.

"…But the plan has support among wealthy gaming tribes who reject what they call 'reservation shopping' by tribes that want to build on other lands. Many of these tribes are calling for even stricter rules.

"The proposed new guidelines have drawn hundreds of comments from tribes, religious groups, anti-gambling organizations and local governments. The department expects to make a decision this spring.

"The two most contentious issues in the proposed regulations have to do with whether tribes will need to prove a historical connection to the land on which they want to build a casino and whether the tribes that have pending applications will be able to adhere to current guidelines.

"…Off-reservation gaming was a hot topic during the last Congress. Bills to stop the practice died last year, but key lawmakers have requested that the Interior Department follow through on its proposed regulations this year…"

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