Assembly OKs Five Tribal Compacts from Senators Dodd, McGuire

SACRAMENTO – The California Assembly has approved legislation from Sens. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, and Mike McGuire, D-North Coast, that would ratify gaming compacts between the state and five California tribes, enhancing economic development, stability and self-sufficiency of members and surrounding communities.

“The ratification of these compacts is essential for the economic vitality and security of Native American tribes,” Sen. Dodd said. “Casino revenue has allowed these members to flourish after enduring years of poverty and discrimination, and I am eager to see that continue. At the same time, the tribes provide considerable employment and business opportunities for others, enhancing the surrounding communities.”

“SB 771 is critical to tribal economic development and prosperity here on the North Coast, and we’re grateful to Sen. Dodd and tribal leaders for working together to get this key piece of legislation to the governor’s desk,” said Sen. McGuire.

Senate Bill 771 would ratify five tribal-state gaming compacts entered into between California and the following Northern California tribes: the Cahto Tribe of the Laytonville Rancheria, the Ewiiaapaayp Band of Kumeyaay Indians, the Manchester Band of Pomo Indians, the Resighini Rancheria and the Sherwood Valley Rancheria. 

The bill was approved Monday by a unanimous vote of the Assembly and heads next to Gov. Gavin Newsom for a signature.

Sen. Dodd chairs the Senate committee on Governmental Organization, which oversees compacts between the state and tribal governments.

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Sen. Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Sonoma, Solano, Yolo, Contra Costa, and Sacramento counties. You can learn more about the district and Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.