Expressing support for efforts by the federal government to amend The Restoration Act, relating to certain Indian gaming prohibitions.
This resolution highlights the economic struggles faced by the Tigua tribe following the closure of their Speaking Rock Casino, which had been a significant source of income providing jobs and health insurance for its members. The bill underscores the discrepancies between tribes that are recognized under differing timelines regarding gaming laws, pointing out that the Kickapoo tribe has been able to benefit from gaming revenue, allowing for investment in housing and education for its community. Should the amendment to the Restoration Act occur, it would allow the Tigua tribe to similarly benefit from gaming revenues and enhance their community welfare.
HR2852 is a resolution expressing support for efforts by the federal government to amend The Restoration Act, specifically aiming to remove the gaming prohibitions that currently restrict the Tigua Indians of Ysleta del Sur Pueblo of El Paso from participating in gaming activities. The Restoration Act, established in 1987, reinstated federal jurisdiction over the Tigua tribe but imposed restrictions on gaming that were enacted before the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). As a result, the Tigua tribe has faced barriers to economic development through gaming, unlike other tribes such as the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, which operates a successful casino under federal oversight due to its different federal recognition timeline.
The notable point of contention revolves around the state's existing legal framework that currently prohibits the Tigua tribe from participating in gaming despite their federal recognition. By eliminating the specific language in Section 1300g-6 of the Restoration Act, this resolution aims to create parity among tribes concerning their ability to generate income via gaming. Supporters argue that the bill is necessary for the economic revival of the Tigua community, while opponents may raise concerns over the potential implications of increased gaming operations, including regulatory and societal impacts.