In a surprising turn of events, the U.S. House has passed a bill that effectively blocks the Poarch Band of Creek Indians from expanding gambling operations in Alabama. The bill, officially known as H.R. 7592, was introduced by Rep. Bradley Byrne (R-AL) and sailed through the House with bipartisan support.
The Poarch Band of Creek Indians, also known as the Poarch Creeks, currently operate three casinos in Alabama and have been looking to expand their gambling operations in the state. However, the passage of H.R. 7592 effectively puts a halt to their plans.
The bill prohibits the Department of the Interior from taking land into trust for gaming purposes for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians in Alabama. This means that the tribe will not be able to acquire any more land for the purpose of expanding their casinos.
Rep. Byrne, who has been a vocal opponent of the Poarch Creeks’ expansion plans, praised the passage of the bill, stating that it is necessary to protect Alabama communities from the negative effects of expanded gambling.
“Gambling addiction is a real problem in our state, and we cannot allow one tribe to monopolize the industry and further exacerbate this issue,” Byrne said in a statement. “This bill will prevent the Poarch Band of Creek Indians from expanding their gambling operations and preserve the integrity of our communities.”
The Poarch Band of Creek Indians, on the other hand, have expressed disappointment over the passage of the bill. In a statement, tribal chairman Stephanie Bryan criticized the House for interfering in tribal affairs.
“The Poarch Band of Creek Indians have a sovereign right to self-governance and economic development, and this bill directly undermines that right,” Bryan said. “It is disappointing to see Congress interfering in tribal affairs and preventing us from pursuing economic opportunities that benefit our community.”
The bill will now move to the Senate for consideration. It is unclear what the outcome will be, but the passage of H.R. 7592 in the House serves as a significant roadblock for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians’ expansion plans in Alabama.穏
Overall, the passage of this bill has set the stage for a contentious battle between the Poarch Creeks and lawmakers in Alabama. It remains to be seen how this issue will be resolved, but one thing is for certain: the future of gambling in Alabama is up in the air.