FR 2025-00772

The document released by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, part of the U.S. Department of the Interior, announces the approval of a fifth amendment to the Tribal-State compact for class III gaming activities between the Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians of Washington and the State of Washington. This amendment specifically addresses changes in the scope of gaming activities allowed, notably permitting the operation of electronic table games and removing provisions related to revenue sharing for smoking cessation programs. The amendment becomes effective on January 15, 2025.

General Summary

The amendment involves regulations set under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) of 1988, which provides the Secretary of the Interior with authority over class III gaming activities on tribal lands. Once a compact is submitted, IGRA mandates a decision within 45 days. If there is no decision, the compact is automatically approved provided it aligns with the law. This specific amendment was approved by the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, Bryan Newland.

Significant Issues or Concerns

Several issues emerge from this documentation. Firstly, the financial implications or potential costs associated with the introduction of electronic table games are not discussed, leaving concerns about financial oversight. Secondly, the removal of revenue-sharing provisions for smoking cessation without explanation could raise questions regarding public health funding priorities. Additionally, there is no discussion regarding how these changes align with previous compacts, leaving uncertainties about consistency and legal precedence. The document also lacks detailed information regarding the specific regulations or operational changes associated with the new gaming activities, potentially causing confusion among stakeholders. Lastly, there is a lack of transparency about the decision-making process leading to this amendment's approval, which might provoke concerns about how decisions are reached.

Impact on the Public

Broadly, this amendment may introduce changes in recreational opportunities and economic impacts in the regions where these gaming activities exist. The public, especially those interested in gaming, may experience expanded gaming options, such as electronic table games, contributing to increased engagement with local gaming facilities. However, it might also result in less funding for smoking cessation programs, depending on how those programs were previously supported by revenue-sharing agreements.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For tribal governments like the Stillaguamish Tribe, the amendment could provide opportunities for economic expansion and greater autonomy in gaming operations. The inclusion of electronic table games might drive up revenue, although the removal of provisions for smoking cessation revenue sharing might present challenges or necessitate budget reallocations for public health concerns previously supported by revenue-sharing funds.

For the State of Washington, the amendments likely necessitate adjustments in regulatory oversight processes associated with the implementation of these electronic gaming options.

Overall, while the approval of this amendment is a step forward for the involved parties in gaming operations, the lack of detailed transparency and documentation of fiscal impacts and health implications might warrant further inquiry and discussion. Stakeholders, including public health officials and tribal leaders, may need to closely monitor these changes to assess their long-term implications.