Jan 24, 2008 7:28 pm US/Pacific
California's Big Gamble: A Look At Indian Gaming
(CBS 5)
Californians will head to the polls on February 5th to vote on Propositions 94 through 97, a series of ballot measures to expand Indian gaming in the state. CBS 5's John Lobertini takes a look at the potential impacts and the money involved in one of the most hotly contested election battles in state history.
Part 1: Some California Tribes Suffer Despite Growth of Gaming
Voters approved Indian gaming in the late 1990s, generating billions of dollars each year. But nearly a decade later, many tribes are still living in poverty, their reservations barely touched by the riches created in their name. Side deals do exist, but they are often fragile.
Watch Part 1
Part 2: Billions At Stake Over Tribal Gaming Propositions If the propositions pass, Agua Caliente, Morongo, Pechanga and Sycuan Indian casinos in Southern California would be allowed to add an additional 17,000 slot machines. The measures would put the tribes in the same league as the most prominent casinos on the Las Vegas Strip.
But opponents argue the measures would mean more traffic and pollution for areas near casinos. They also argue the expansion in gaming could ruin smaller Indian casinos.
Watch Part 2Part 3: Tribal Gaming Campaign Raises Addiction Concerns The highly-funded and hotly contested political campaign to expand gambling in several Indian casinos in California has raised concerns over the potential impact of compulsive gambling.
But gambling in many Asian communities is wildly popular. Recovering addict Bill Lee said it's an accepted custom, and maybe even a passion that casinos are happy to tap into. There are also concerns over the pay and healthcare of those who work inside the casinos.
Watch Part 3Part 4: Ad Blitz Underway On Indian Gaming Measures The battle over Propositions 94 through 97 could go down as one of the five most expensive ballot battles in California. Both sides of the issue are throwing bags of money at the campaign.
Supporters of the measures have raised $85 million to be used solely on political ads, while opponents have raised $26 million. The money is also buying a lot of clout with politicians in Sacramento.
Watch Part 4
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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