Gaming is “one of most important drivers of tribal economic growth” and the Interior Department rules are designed to help tribes negotiate better deals.
These regulations will also make it easier for tribes to obtain the Interior Department’s approval of compacts they have with the states.
By clarifying the boundaries of aspects for negotiation and defining terms as well as when Interior Department reviews a tribal compact, the changes to 25 C.F.R.Part 293, are expected to improve the Interior Department’s criteria for approval.
Interior Department states that the final rule “reflects the input and recommendations of tribes”. The new regulation will be effective 30 days following publication in Federal Register. It is anticipated that this will happen in the next few days.
Interior Department Secretary Deb Haaland stated: “Not just does Indian Gaming support tribal economies but the funds it generates help to support vital services provided by tribal nations to their citizens.
By updating the regulations, we provide clarity and certainty to Indian tribes in an industry which remains a significant source of economic development for Indian Country.
The Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, Bryan Newland said: “By clarifying the Class III Gaming Compact negotiations, Biden-Harris is fulfilling its commitments towards Indian Country.”
The Tribal Sovereignty is under Attack
The year 2023 will be remembered as a crucial one, when tribal nations fight for their sovereignty within the United States.
Tribes have stepped up to protect their casino and gambling rights, despite the fact that state governments want to gain more control of Indian land and there are still concerns about courts.
Tribal gaming has a good performance overall. In its annual report, the National Indian Gaming Commission reported that revenues for 2022 would increase by 4.9%, to $40. This $1.9bn increase is the largest ever.
Even with tribal casinos and gaming performing well, politicians and commercial interests are looking for a piece of this success. State governments and courts are involved.
