"The approval of these compacts helps bring to a close a long and difficult phase in the implementation of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. For twelve years the Tribal governments of California have diligently moved forward, through some extremely difficult and trying times to secure their rights of self-determination through Tribal government gaming. Today, they have redeemed their rights.
"The resolution of this issue demonstrates that the political process works when people of foresight, and good will resolve themselves to finding a solution.
"This is a victory for respectful government-to-government relations between States and Tribes and for Tribal self-determination. We commend the Tribal governments of California for their fortitude and perseverance, the State of California for working to find a solution, and especially the people of the State of California for using their voice to demand a fair and honorable solution."
For Immediate Release: May 5, 2000
