Governor Gavin Newsom recently renewed an important gaming agreement with the Trinidad Rancheria tribe. According to the newly inked compact extension, the tribe will be allowed to keep running their casino in Trinidad through the end of the current year.
Two months ago, in May, Newsom launched a federal lawsuit to prevent the Koi Nation’s casino and resort plans for Sonoma County from seeing the light of day. Last September, he signed Senate Bill 549, giving native American tribes the right to take legal action against private card rooms.
More Room to Breathe
This new compact extension does not change any of the current rules, but it offers both the tribe and the state of California more breathing room to work out a longer-term plan without interrupting the casino’s daily operations.
The compact, which follows the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act enacted by Congress in 1988 to “regulate the conduct of gaming on Indian Lands”, lets the tribe offer games like slot machines and blackjack on their land.
This isn’t new territory, as the tribe and the state have worked together on gaming compacts since 1999, with updates in recent years.
Under the agreement, part of the Cher-Ae Heights Casino’s revenue will continue to fund public services and infrastructure projects in the state.
Complying With All Regulations
The tribe will also have to work on meeting a series of regulatory standards, including regular audits, to ensure accountability and keep players protected.
That means independent audits and oversight by the California Gambling Control Commission, so players can trust the games and the state can keep watch on the casino’s operations.
The Heights Casino, located next to Eureka, hosts 300 slot machines functioning on a 24-hour basis, along with table games, and bingo games spread across 50,000 sq. ft., along with their popular Sunset restaurant.
However, the venue is considered more than a simple business, as it stands out as a major source of jobs and income for the tribe and the surrounding area.
The compact, as expected, further reiterates the commitment shown by the tribe toward their community, encouraging the hiring of Native Americans, local residents, and people living in nearby areas.
Plus, there’s an emphasis on training and building careers in gaming and hospitality, giving people real opportunities to grow and succeed.
With this extension locked in, the tribe can focus on negotiating a longer-term deal while continuing to support the local economy and their people.