In California this week the hearings on tribal gaming compacts continue. The deal that was previously negotiated over many months with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger failed to get ratification from the Legislature in the last moments of the session in 2006. The tribes are seeking amendments that would add 22,500 more slot machines and give the state an estimated US$1 million or more every day. Pressure on politicians from the labour unions, which want casino workers to be represented by them, is thought to have largely caused the failure of the compact ratification last year.

Under the gaming compacts negotiated in 1999, the unions are allowed to organize under traditional secret ballot approaches. They are now pressing for a card check process. Not all those employed in California’s Indian gaming facilities seek union representation. Comprehensive health care packages, good wages, free child care and discounted meals keep most of the work force content without the need for unions. The tribes are also aware of the need to maintain the support of local communities. Last week the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians contributed over US$1.3 million to local charities in the Coachella Valley.

A lengthy delay in ratifying the new compacts would cost the state millions of dollars. The Morongo Band of Mission Indians estimates that at least US$37 million in its contributions would be lost even without additional machines. Californian finance officials are awaiting the outcome to know whether around US$500 million can be added to budget proposals from the compacts. Following testimony at the hearings from the Agua Caliente Band and the Morongo Band on Wednesday, the Sam Manuel Band and Pechanga Band will testify today. A fifth tribe, the Yuroks, will make a third attempt to negotiate a compact that would allow them to operate 99 slot machines. (E-04.12.07)

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