As reported by the Columbian: “Federal officials are crafting regulations
that could derail the Cowlitz Tribe’s chances for winning federal approval
of its $510 million casino complex near La Center. “The regulations, which
still are in the preliminary stage, would require at least half of tribal
members to live within 50 miles of the casino site, a condition the Cowlitz
and many other tribes would not meet. “Congress already is considering
legislation that would make it more difficult for tribes to build new
casinos.
“The Senate Indian Affairs Committee has approved legislation sponsored by
Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., that would impose a new requirement on the
Cowlitz and other tribes. In the House, Rep. Richard Pombo, R-Calif., has
introduced a bill that would all but kill the tribe’s prospects for building
a 134,150-square-foot casino.”
