[RGSpincich]

You already explained it.

federal law signed by Reagan, to negotiate wit the various tribes in order to allow gaming

Pretty exclusive bunch. Not a mandate to allow gambling for all in California that would give the tribes an opportunity to create a competitive business.

[Chad Fairbanks]

Ahh, but I can see where your logic fails. In California, the Indian Tribes are 'regulated' (for lack of a better word) by both the Feds AND the State. (in other states, it's usually only the feds who 'regulate', but I digress) Since the states hava an 'interest' and could be impacted by gaming, the feds felt the fair way to do it was to have the states and tribes negotiate and reach agreements.

However, if you want non-tribal casinos in California, no federal mandate is needed. California can, if it chooses, pass laws allowing non-indian casinos any time they choose.

Do you see the point now? :0)