Indian Gaming

An important milestone occurred on Feb. 25th of this year. On that day 20 years ago the U.S. Supreme Court handed down a landmark decision (California vs Cabazon Band of Mission Indians) that essentially recognized the sovereign rights of Native American Tribes to use gaming as a tool for economic development. While individual states still have a limited regulatory role, the Supreme Court decision literally kicked the door open to what has become a $25 billion industry of tribal casinos in 22 states.

There are varying opinions about Indian gaming -- some think there are too many Indian casinos, others believe the Indian casinos should be paying more taxes, while some gamblers are not happy when they can't learn about slots payouts ( in some states Native American casinos don't have to release information about their slot machine payout percentages like the commercial casinos do.) But generally people seem pleased that Native Americans have this opportunity to bring new economic development to their communities.

We've visited many Indian casinos throughout the country -- some large and lavish, others quaint and cozy. But one thing is certain --- gaming brought jobs, education, improved health services, community centers, hospitals and college scholarships to tribes that had been impoverished and struggling. When the decision was handed down 20 years ago, who could have imagined the profound impact it would have on so many Native American communities and on the gaming industry itself!