(June 20, 2005—Madison, WI) Enough!, a growing grassroots coalition opposed to the expansion of off-reservation gaming in Wisconsin, applauds today’s action by the Assembly Committee on State Affairs in their advancing of AB-461, the bill granting legislative approval of off-reservation gaming proposals.
“Committee Chair Rep. Jeff Fitzgerald (R-Juneau) and the other members of the Assembly State Affairs Committee should be commended for recognizing that off-reservation casinos are very different than on-reservation casinos.” said Brian J. Nemoir, Executive Director of Enough! “It makes sense for the legislature to review off-reservation proposals to better insure the interest of the entire state and not just those of an individual community are considered.”
Currently, the Federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act outlines the process for off-reservation gaming approval. The tribe representing the desired off-reservation site petitions the US Secretary of Interior (secretary). The secretary makes a recommendation based on the “best interests of the Indian tribe” and “whether it would not be detrimental to the surrounding community.” Once the secretary makes its recommendation, the governor has the final opportunity to concur or disagree with the offered opinion.
AB-461, which was recommended for adoption 5-2, would require legislative concurrence prior to the governor offering the final support or opposition to the federal government.
Earlier today, Enough! publicly released a statewide poll of 603 residents, in which 70% of those questioned felt the legislature should be allowed to have final approval of off-reservation casinos. In addition, the poll demonstrated strong public opposition to off-reservation gaming, with 63% of the respondent opposed.
“The decisive committee action, and the 70% support among the public for legislative approval demonstrates a growing pubic desire for legislative oversight of new off-reservation casinos,” said Nemoir.
Enough! is a growing and diverse grassroots coalition opposed to the expansion of off-reservation gambling in Wisconsin. For more information please contact Brian J. Nemoir, Executive Director at 608.268.6777 or visit: www.enoughwi.com