Texas House Bill HJR98

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to conduct gaming by executing a gaming agreement with this state.

Impact

The proposed amendment is expected to significantly alter the landscape of gaming rights within Texas, particularly empowering the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe, which is currently the only Tribe in Texas allowed to operate gaming under the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. By enacting this amendment, the Tribe would gain greater autonomy and potential economic benefits from gaming activities that would otherwise not be readily accessible under state law without this prior approval. This could have ripple effects on local economies as well, particularly in the vicinity of the Tribe's reservation areas.

Summary

HJR98 proposes a constitutional amendment to permit the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to conduct gaming activities by establishing a gaming agreement with the state. The amendment seeks to modify Section 47 of Article III of the Texas Constitution to support this initiative, primarily ensuring that the Tribe has the authority to execute a gaming compact with the State without requiring further legislative action. This amendment is aimed at bolstering tribal self-governance and facilitating economic development within the Tribe's jurisdiction.

Sentiment

Support for HJR98 is generally strong among tribal advocates and those sympathetic to indigenous rights. They argue that this amendment not only provides the Tribe with necessary economic opportunities but also respects their sovereign rights to self-governance. Conversely, some opponents express concerns regarding the implications of expanded gaming and its effect on social issues such as gambling addiction. The debate reflects broader tensions between state control and tribal autonomy, highlighting differing perspectives on how best to balance economic development with regulatory oversight and community welfare.

Contention

A notable point of contention stems from the potential for increased gambling operations in Texas, which could lead to a more complex regulatory environment and heightened competition among gaming entities, including both tribal and non-tribal operations. Opponents of the amendment may push back against what they perceive as an encroachment on local governance, fearing that expanding gaming rights for the Tribe may result in negative externalities. Furthermore, the lasting nature of the compact, which would be effective for 25 years, raises questions about long-term accountability and oversight of gaming activities under tribal administration.