The enactment of SB1536 would significantly alter the gaming regulations for the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo and the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe, bringing them under the same federal guidelines that govern over 200 Indian tribes across 28 states. As it stands, these two tribes are currently able to conduct gaming activities without the framework set out by the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which could lead to inconsistencies and potential legal disputes. This bill aims to rectify this discrepancy, thereby facilitating fair competition and compliance with federal standards.
Summary
SB1536, also known as the Tribal Gaming Regulatory Compliance Act, aims to ensure that all federally recognized Indian Tribes eligible for gaming in the United States are regulated under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. This legislative effort stems from findings that two Texas tribes, the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo and the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe, are currently not regulated under this federal law despite being eligible to conduct gaming activities. The bill seeks to amend existing statutes to include these tribes, promoting consistent oversight and regulation throughout the country.
Contention
Notably, there may be points of contention regarding this bill, particularly concerning the perceived impact on state sovereignty and local control over tribal actions. Some critics might argue that federal regulation could impose additional burdens on these tribes' autonomy to govern their own gaming activities. Moreover, the shift towards federal regulation may stir discussions on the extent of tribal self-determination in economic ventures and how this could affect their economic independence and cultural identity.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to require the governor to execute model gaming compacts with the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas and the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo and to authorize those tribes to sue this state if the governor fails to execute said model gaming compacts.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo Tribe and the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas to conduct all forms of gaming on certain tribal land and requiring the tribes to annually pay five percent of net proceeds from gaming to the comptroller of public accounts for deposit in the general revenue fund.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo Tribe and the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas to conduct all forms of gaming on certain tribal land and requiring the tribes to annually pay five percent of net proceeds from gaming to the comptroller of public accounts for deposit in the general revenue fund.
Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to require the governor to negotiate and execute gaming compacts with the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, and the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo and to authorize those tribes to sue this state if the governor fails to negotiate in good faith.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to treat recognized Indian tribes equally with regard to authorizing gambling or other gaming activity on tribal land.