Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB3097

Introduced
5/5/23  

Caption

To amend the Bridgeport Indian Colony Land Trust, Health, and Economic Development Act of 2012 to remove the restriction on class II gaming on certain land in California.

Impact

The removal of the class II gaming restriction under HB3097 is expected to have significant implications for the Bridgeport Indian Colony. By allowing class II gaming, tribes may gain increased autonomy in managing their economic resources, which could ultimately lead to job creation and enhanced public services. This change could empower the tribe to utilize their land more effectively for economic growth, thereby improving the overall quality of life for its members and supporting the broader regional economy. Additionally, allowing gaming may position the tribe to better compete with nearby gaming establishments and leverage its assets for development.

Summary

House Bill 3097 aims to amend the Bridgeport Indian Colony Land Trust, Health, and Economic Development Act of 2012 by removing the existing restrictions on class II gaming on certain land in California. This bill, introduced in the House of Representatives, seeks to facilitate economic opportunities for the Bridgeport Indian Colony through the expansion of gaming operations, which are critical for revenue generation and community development. The proposed amendments reflect a growing recognition of the importance of these gaming activities for tribal sovereignty and economic resilience.

Contention

While the bill holds promise for economic advancement, it may face opposition from various stakeholders concerned about the implications of expanding gaming. Some critics may argue that increasing gaming operations could lead to social issues, including gambling addiction and community disruption. There may also be legal and regulatory challenges related to the amendment of existing land trust laws. Supporters will likely need to address these concerns to mitigate opposition and ensure that the benefits of gaming expansion are realized responsibly within the community.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB929

Puyallup Tribe of Indians Land Into Trust Confirmation Act of 2023

US SB1322

Unlocking Native Lands and Opportunities for Commerce and Key Economic Developments Act of 2023

US HB3173

Northern Nevada Economic Development and Conservation Act of 2024

US SB382

Puyallup Tribe of Indians Land Into Trust Confirmation Act of 2023

US HB423

Pala Band of Mission Indians Land Transfer Act of 2023 This bill directs the Department of the Interior to take approximately 721.12 acres of land in San Diego County, California, into trust for the benefit of the Pala Band of Mission Indians, if the tribe transfers title to that land to the United States. The land is made part of the Pala Indian Reservation. The bill generally prohibits gaming on any of the land taken into trust.

US HB1

Lower Energy Costs Act This bill provides for the exploration, development, importation, and exportation of energy resources (e.g., oil, gas, and minerals). For example, it sets forth provisions to (1) expedite energy projects, (2) eliminate or reduce certain fees related to the development of federal energy resources, and (3) eliminate certain funds that provide incentives to decrease emissions of greenhouse gases. The bill expedites the development, importation, and exportation of energy resources, including by waiving environmental review requirements and other specified requirements under certain environmental laws, eliminating certain restrictions on the import and export of oil and natural gas, prohibiting the President from declaring a moratorium on the use of hydraulic fracturing (a type of process used to extract underground energy resources), directing the Department of the Interior to conduct sales for the leasing of oil and gas resources on federal lands and waters as specified by the bill, and limiting the authority of the President and executive agencies to restrict or delay the development of energy on federal land. In addition, the bill reduces royalties for oil and gas development on federal land and eliminates charges on methane emissions. It also eliminates a variety of funds, such as funds for energy efficiency improvements in buildings as well as the greenhouse gas reduction fund.

US SB277

Pala Band of Mission Indians Land Transfer Act of 2023

US HB226

Eastern Band of Cherokee Historic Lands Reacquisition Act This bill takes specified lands and easements in Monroe County, Tennessee, into trust for the use and benefit of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. These lands include the Sequoyah Museum, the Chota Memorial, the Tanasi Memorial, and land to provide support for these properties and cultural programs. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) maintains its right to carry out river control and development on these lands, including temporarily and intermittently flooding certain lands. The bill specifies the structures that may be constructed with the TVA's written consent on certain lands subject to flooding. Additionally, the TVA must be compensated for lost hydropower capacity from future development of these lands. Further, the bill specifies that the United States is not liable for loss or damage resulting from certain activities, such as the permanent flooding of adjacent lands. In addition, the bill outlines the TVA's continuing responsibilities, including those related to environmental remediation. Finally, the bill prohibits gaming on these lands.

US HB1208

To amend the Act of June 18, 1934, to reaffirm the authority of the Secretary of the Interior to take land into trust for Indian Tribes, and for other purposes.

US HB2317

Northern Nevada Economic Development and Conservation Act of 2025 Fernley Economic Development Act Elko Economic Development Act Pershing County Economic Development and Conservation Act

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.