Us Congress Senate Bill SB910

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/22/23
• Refer: 3/22/23
• Report Pass: 7/19/23

Caption

A bill to amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act, and for other purposes.

Impact

The amendment modifies existing oversight and eligibility rules associated with real estate acquired by federally recognized tribes, specifically in Oregon. The bill aims to prevent the use of specified lands for gaming purposes, effectively narrowing the scope of gaming rights for the Grand Ronde Tribes. By doing so, it emphasizes the preservation of treaty rights for the tribes while clarifying their limitations in relation to new land acquisitions linked to past settlements, which could influence tribal revenue streams based on gaming.

Summary

SB910 seeks to amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act, focusing primarily on the gaming eligibility of properties acquired by tribes through approved land claim settlements. Specifically, the bill stipulates that no properties designated as part of these settlements will be eligible for class II or class III gaming under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. This measure is intended to clarify the status of certain lands concerning gaming operations which has been a contentious issue for the tribes around these claims.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding SB910 reflect a cautious approach to balancing state interests and tribal treaty rights. Supporters of the bill believe that it helps maintain clarity and limits potential legal disputes regarding land use and gaming rights. However, there are opponents who see it as a potential curb on tribal sovereignty and economic opportunities, arguing that it could impede the tribes' ability to use newly acquired lands for revenue-generating activities.

Contention

The primary point of contention revolves around the implications of prohibiting gaming on lands secured through federal land settlements. Opponents worry that the bill could limit the economic potential of the tribes, especially in a region where gaming has become a significant source of revenue. This has raised debates regarding the lack of consultation with affected tribal leaders and the broader implications for tribal economic development in Oregon, alongside challenges to existing treaty rights.