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Rally Targets California's Casino Tribes

SACRAMENTO, California – As reported by the Palm Springs Desert Sun: "Endorsing Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's call for Indian casinos to pay their 'fair share,' about 100 community representatives -- including many from the Coachella Valley -- rallied at the Capitol to criticize some tribes for damage to everything from roads to planning procedures.

"With participants hoisting signs saying 'Stop Tribal Greed' and 'Fair Share for Palm Springs,' several speakers said they don't oppose tribal casinos, but want to support the governor.

"The demonstrators, who were joined by the Sierra Club and California State Sheriffs' Association, complained both about tribes that are trying to open casinos, especially on newly acquired land, as well as those with existing gambling operations.

"…Schwarzenegger has called on tribes to contribute $500 million to the state budget in 2004-05 and is negotiating with more than seven tribes, though his office won't say exactly how many.

"… For their part, gambling tribes responded to some of the charges by saying that some of tribes already have individual agreements with communities to offset casino-related costs and that they also pay about $130 million into two state funds that help cover these costs, among other uses…"

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