The Indian Gaming Revenue Sharing Trust Fund acts as a critical financial mechanism for supporting noncompact, non-gaming, or limited-gaming Indian tribes in California. The proposed change to the payment schedule may affect the tribes' ability to plan and execute their budgets effectively. The bill ensures that the trust fund maintains its purpose of facilitating economic support for these tribes while adhering to the guidelines established under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988, which governs tribal-state gaming compacts.
Summary
Assembly Bill No. 2794, introduced by Assembly Member Eduardo Garcia, seeks to amend existing statutes related to the Indian Gaming Revenue Sharing Trust Fund. The bill proposes to change the payment timeline for the California Gambling Control Commission to make quarterly payments to eligible recipient Indian tribes from 45 days to 46 days after the end of each fiscal quarter. This seemingly minor adjustment could have implications on the timely distribution of funds that tribal governments rely on for essential services and community development.
Contention
While the bill may appear uncontroversial at face value, there are underlying concerns regarding the adequacy of the funding available through the Indian Gaming Revenue Sharing Trust Fund. Legislators may express apprehension about the sustainability of this funding source, especially in light of fluctuations in gaming revenues and potential shortfalls. Furthermore, tribes may debate the implications of a delayed payment schedule and whether it hinders their ability to access timely financial resources needed for community programs and projects.
Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development: Office of Small Business Advocate: grant programs: taxation: credits: exclusions: sales and use tax.