Tribal leaders warn new federal law threatens sovereignty and gaming revenue

Tribal leaders are raising concerns about the federal budget reconciliation bill signed into law by President Donald Trump on July 4, warning of its potential to erode tribal sovereignty and harm tribal economies, according to CDC Gaming. The $4.8 trillion law includes cuts to Medicaid, food assistance and clean energy programs while increasing funding for immigration enforcement and the military.

During a July 2 webinar hosted by the Indian Gaming Association, Victor Rocha, Jason Giles, Larry Wright Jr. and lobbyist John Harte discussed the law’s impact on tribal governance and gaming. Rocha said the bill threatens education, energy and jurisdictional authority in Indian Country. The law also caps gambling loss deductions at 90%, raising concerns about reduced casino revenue. Wright said the bill will have a “long-lasting impact on tribal members.”