California Tribes Fight Bill Targeting Sweepsngakes Gaming

The tribes stated that collaborations in the online sector are essential for generating revenue in communities located far from major urban centersImage Source: Shutterstock.com

Four Northern California tribeshave increased their resistance to Assembly Bill 831. They organized a protestat the State Capitol on September 8 and cautioned lawmakers that the bill could widen economic gaps among tribal nations.

Small Tribes Argue That Sweepsngakes Ban Could Halt Essential Income Sources

The Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation, Sherwood Valley Rancheria of Pomo Indians, Mechoopda Indian Tribe of Chico Rancheria, andBig Lagoon Rancheriateamed up to speak out against the proposal. They claim that the legislation would ban online social games that depend on sweepsngakes promotions, a change they believe would rob smaller tribes of key opportunities in the digital business world.

If it becomes law, AB 831would tear down an industry that brings in over $1 billionin California. Those who back the bill, like the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA), argue that these sweepsngakes games are against the law and weaken tribal power. However, heads of the four tribes that object say the bill helps rich casino tribes while hurting smaller nations in rural or far-off areas.

Eric Wright, who is Tribal Administrator of the Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation, said that online partnerships play a crucial role in bringing in money for communities far from big cities. He warned that ngaking away this option would rob tribes of funds to pay for healthcare, education, housing, and food programs. He called digital commerce a “lifeline” instead of a luxury.

Sherwood Valley Rancheria Secretary Buffey Bourassashared these worries. She said her tribe views the proposal as a danger to their ability to support themselves. She cautioned that blocking access to regulated online businesses would go against California’s promise to include everyone and expose struggling communities to even more risk.

Critics Claim AB 831 Benefits Big Casinos While Hurting Small Tribes

Mechoopda Chairman Dennis Ramirezstressed that the bill had moved forward without proper talks with all tribal nations. He claimed its approval would solidify a two-tier system that boosts the standing of big casino operators while pushing aside tribes with limited resources.

In addition to financial concerns, those against AB 831are sounding the alarm about tribal independence. They say that wording in the bill could apply criminal punishments to the tribes themselves, breaking federal rules that protect against state control in Indian Country.

The debate has exposed deep rifts in California’s tribal community. Big casino tribes and CNIGA bosses claim the bill must pass to stop what they see as illegal gambling. CNIGA leader James Sivahas slammed sweepsngakes companies for, he believes, fooling smaller tribes with fake promises, though he recognized some nations struggle. As AB 831moves through committees, Monday’s protest showed the fight heating up. The four tribes who demonstrated made their point clear: politicians should block the bill or risk making gaps between California’s native peoples even wider.