My wife is Indian (or Native American if you want to be PC about it) and her tribe in Arizona has had a casino for some time now. Prior to the tribe opening their casino, they were supported overwhelmingly through FedGov grants, etc. (i.e., our tax dollars).
Recently, they moved their health facility from dilapitated trailers that were several decades old (and paid for by our tax dollars) into a beautiful brand new honest to goodness complex - built entirely by casino funds.
Personally, I say let them have the casino's. Then, cut ALL Federal funding of tribal projects.
You understand. :) I wish more people did.
BUMP!
New Mexico Indian Gaming Association chairman Charlie Dorame said his pueblo, Tesuque, has spent more than $20 million in casino profits in the last few years on infrastructure. "That's more money than we received from the federal government since 1976," he said.
I'd rather that individuals (through gambling) pay for these improvements than taxpayers as a whole ante up for them.
<< Personally, I say let them have the casino's. Then, cut ALL Federal funding of tribal projects. >>
I have another alternative. Declare their land private property to be split among the membership of the tribe, and then make them United States citizens and tell them they are EQUAL to every one else. Let them join society and they won't need hospitals.. we already have them.