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Texas expanded gambling bills filed

AUSTIN, Texas – As reported by the El Paso Times: "El Paso's Tigua Indians are hoping that lady luck will finally shine on them this year at the Texas Legislature.

"Several bills have been filed by state lawmakers that would allow the Tiguas to resume gambling at their Speaking Rock Casino, including a proposal from one El Paso representative to tie state proceeds from gambling to higher education funding.

"The Tiguas have been looking to reopen Speaking Rock Casino since then-state Attorney General John Cornyn shut it down in 2002.

"Some El Pasoans support opening the casino because it would generate money for the state.

"…This year, state Rep. Norma Chávez, D-El Paso, has proposed a number of measures that would allow federally-recognized Indian tribes to conduct gambling activities. One proposal, which is expected to be heard at a committee hearing on Tuesday, would give those tribes exclusive rights to casino gaming in their counties.

"Also proposing separate legislation aimed at legalizing gambling on tribal lands are Rep. Rodney Ellis, D-Houston, and Rep. Kino Flores, D-Mission.

"Chávez' proposal calls for dedicating 5 percent of gaming revenue to the Texas Grant, a cash-strapped grant program for college students who have a 2.5 grade-point average or higher…"

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