Labor unions in California are opposing a cardroom bill that would give tribes the ability to sue cardrooms in the state. They argue that this bill could jeopardize jobs and tax revenue that cardrooms contribute to various cities. Tribes have long claimed that cardrooms offer illegal banked card games like blackjack and baccarat.
Additionally, the Lytton Rancheria praised Governor Gavin Newsom for opposing two tribal casino projects in California. The Shiloh Resort and Casino Project in Sonoma County and the Scotts Valley Casino and Tribal Housing Project in Solano County are facing significant opposition from other tribes who argue that the land is not native to the tribes involved.
In Kern County, California, the Tejon Tribe is making progress on the construction of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino just outside of Bakersfield. The project is set to be completed in two phases, with the first phase including a 150,000-square-foot casino with slot machines, table games, and a Hard Rock Cafe. The second phase will feature a hotel, event center, and more casino space.
The Oneida Indian Nation recently broke ground on a $50 million expansion for its Point Place Casino in Bridgeport, NY. This expansion will include a new gaming floor, a hotel tower, event space, and dining options to further enhance the property as an entertainment destination and economic engine for the community.
In South Dakota, two Nebraska men have been charged with stealing $352,000 from the Grand River Casino, operated by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. They allegedly used a social engineering scheme to convince a casino employee to hand over the money for audit fees. The case is ongoing, and no court date has been set yet.
These developments in the tribal gaming industry highlight the ongoing challenges and successes faced by tribes and other entities involved in the industry. From legal battles over casino projects to criminal activities impacting tribal casinos, the industry continues to evolve and adapt to various circumstances.
