Davis Wants Tougher Rules For Indian Casinos

Governor Davis has sent a letter to California Indian tribes saying current regulations governing the off-reservation impacts of casinos are inadequate and tougher rules are needed.

Davis sent the letter to the 61 California tribes that have compacts with the state allowing them to operate casinos. Davis says “tribal gaming facilities have created significant adverse impacts” on traffic, water, air quality, sewage, noise and wildlife habitat.

Davis sent the letter on the last day before the March first deadline established by the current compacts for the state to request talks on off-reservation impacts.

The letter has gotten a mixed reaction from tribal leaders. Some say they are open to negotiating with the state to come up with clearer rules to protect the environment. Others say they are not.