Thursday, October 24, 2013

Department of Interior Approves NORTH FORK RANCHERIA Off Reservation Casino. AGAINST THE WILL OF CA VOTERS

Contrary to what California voters wanted, OFF RESERVATION CASINO's are now OKAY.   SO WHY, then should tribes get that reward? Shouldn't the STATE now expand into gaming?

The federal Department of the Interior has signed off on the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians' gaming compact allowing a resort and casino north of Madera on Highway 99.
In the Federal Register, the 20-year compact became effective Tuesday and expires on Dec. 31, 2033. The compact allows the North Fork casino to have 2,000 gaming devices. The casino also will have 50 gaming tables. The tribe plans a $250 million project on 305 acres.
Supporters of the compact say the federal announcement means that the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians can begin building. But opponents say the casino may be put on hold pending a state referendum next year. If enough signatures have been gathered to force a referendum, voters will get a chance to accept or reject the compact.
The casino compact went through a process that twice required the federal government and Gov. Jerry Brown's approval. It also was approved by the state Legislature.
Publication in the Federal Register marks the end of a nine-year process, said Elaine Bethel-Fink, tribal chair for the North Fork Mono Rancheria Indians.




Read the rest of Marc Benjamin’s story in the FRESNO BEE
How’s Expanded gaming worked out for CA?

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