Big Lagoon Rancheria Calls for Delay on Assembly Bill 831

Big Lagoon Rancheria Raises Concerns Over Assembly Bill 831

The Big Lagoon Rancheria has urged California legislators to pause progress on Assembly Bill 831. The tribe argues that the bill threatens tribal sovereignty and could negatively impact smaller tribes’ economic opportunities. This appeal was made through a letter dated August 25, addressed to the Senate Appropriations Committee and signed by Tribal Chairperson Virgil Moorehead.

Potential Economic and Sovereignty Impacts Highlighted by the Tribe

The tribe clarifies that their appeal is not a rejection of regulating sweepstakes-style gaming altogether. Instead, they emphasize the importance of consulting all tribes affected by the legislation. Originally intended as a minor technical change to compact law, the bill was significantly altered in the Senate without adequate input from tribal governments. The revised bill proposes banning many forms of online gaming.

Chairperson Moorehead expressed concern that these unilateral amendments violate commitments to government-to-government consultation, damaging the trust between the state and tribal nations. He warned that the broad language within the bill could hold not only gaming operators but also service providers liable, potentially extending state authority into Indian reservations in ways that may conflict with federal laws.

Financial concerns are central to the tribe’s position. Many smaller and rural tribes, lacking large physical casinos, have relied on online gaming ventures to support essential services such as healthcare, housing, and education. Tribal leaders contend that Assembly Bill 831 could eliminate these vital revenue streams without providing alternatives or assessing the possible financial losses to the tribes.

Big Lagoon Rancheria and Kletsel Authority Advocate for Thoughtful Sweepstakes Regulation

The Big Lagoon Rancheria, alongside the Kletsel Economic Development Authority, warns about the lack of exploration of balanced regulatory options. Both organizations emphasize the need for solutions that protect consumers while sustaining tribal income.

In a recent Senate Appropriations Committee hearing, numerous stakeholders opposed the bill, with no supporters testifying. Critics, including industry representatives, highlighted that properly regulating and taxing sweepstakes gaming could generate between $200 million and $300 million annually in state revenue. The committee plans to revisit the bill soon, and both proponents and opponents are preparing to present their viewpoints.

Leaders from Big Lagoon Rancheria stress the importance of a careful and inclusive legislative approach that safeguards consumers while honoring the rights and economic wellbeing of California’s tribal communities.