Bill would allow tribal gambling

Bill would allow tribal gambling, this is an article found in the Austin American Statesman covering a new bill that would provide a defense to prosecution for tribes that operate limited casino gambling in Texas. This is an issue that has been going on for years. In fact, a similar legislation was filed two years ago, but that bill died on a rare tie vote of 66-66 in the Texas House. This time, the House is more closely divided with a 76-74 Republican majority and presumably more votes for Indian casino legislation.

The tribes argue that because Texas created a state-run lottery it opened the door for Indian casino gambling on federally recognized tribal lands.Currently the Kickapoo tribe in Eagle Pass is the only one of the three Texas tribes operating a limited casino. It is governed by the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

Some members of the El Paso legislative delegation say they hope the omnibus casino bill is viewed as a possible revenue generator for the state, but Gov. Rick Perry doesn't want to expand the footprint of gambling in the state. Another reason is that Texas' social conservative Republicans - a reliable voting bloc for Perry - generally oppose gambling legislation. Perry is battling the more moderate U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison in the 2010 Republican gubernatorial primary.

I figured this article was important to read since is one of the issues covered in the textbook for my Texas government class. This article can also inform many Texas residents that like me are not familiar with this situation.