REDDING, CA – Redding Rancheria has announced the passage of Assembly Bill 854, authored by Assemblymember John C. Ramos. The landmark legislation, which was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, formally ratifies Redding Rancheria’s Indian gaming compact with the State of California.
The bill passed the Assembly floor on a 74-0 vote, with six members absent or not voting at the time of the vote. The bill passed the Senate floor on a 38-0 vote, with two members absent or not voting at the time of the vote.
This compact will carry Redding Rancheria through the next 25 years of gaming in California. The ratification signifies a momentous achievement in the tribe’s ongoing commitment to tribal sovereignty and self-governance. The agreement between Redding Rancheria and the state government is a testament to the shared vision of promoting economic growth, job creation, and community development.
“I thank the governor for approving AB 854, which ratifies the gaming compact between the State of California and Redding Rancheria for 25 years, effective immediately,” said Assemblymember Ramos. “Originally negotiated and ratified in 1999, the compact has enabled the tribe to maintain and operate a gaming facility. The original agreement was the result of a historic, hard-fought struggle to recognize tribal sovereignty, and it established a path toward self-sufficiency. In the past, California sought to whittle away at tribal sovereignty in exchange for the gaming agreements. In contrast, these negotiations have been respectful of tribal rights while ensuring that California’s interests are also protected. I extend my congratulations to the Redding Rancheria Tribal Council and its Chairman Jack Potter Jr. on achieving this successful milestone.”
“The compact between Redding Rancheria and the State of California upholds the will of voters, who decided with prop 1A to protect gaming exclusivity for sovereign, federally recognized tribes,” said Chairman Potter. “Our tribe’s gaming operation allows our government to exercise our sovereignty in the land of our ancestors. We use our gaming resources to support our tribal members and be generous neighbors and employers in our city and county.”
The compact establishes a solid framework for responsible gaming operations while fostering a fair and mutually beneficial partnership between the tribal nation and the state. It also expressly authorizes Class III gaming at the tribe’s I-5 property, once the federal government puts the land into trust, paving the way for a successful casino relocation project.
“This momentous occasion represents an example of the strength of tribal sovereignty and the effectiveness of government-to-government negotiations,” said Tracy Edwards, CEO of Redding Rancheria. “We are committed to utilizing the opportunities provided by this compact to enhance the well-being of our community members, support local economies, and continue our tradition of responsible gaming operations. As we’ve always said, this community is our home and it is our priority to have a positive impact on everyone that lives here.”
The ratification of this Indian gaming compact will enable Redding Rancheria to further its economic development initiatives, provide essential services to tribal members, and contribute to the prosperity of the local community through job opportunities and local partnerships. The compact also reaffirms dedication to responsible gaming, ensuring the highest standards of integrity, fairness, and transparency.
