The State Assembly approves legislation that gives lawmakers a say in where tribal casinos are located. The bill would require any off-reservation casino project to be approved by the legislature, a decision currently left in the hands of the governor. State Representative Robin Vos (R-Racine), the sponsor of the bill, says it creates a check and balance that's needed in Wisconsin.
Assembly Democrats opposed the bill during Tuesday's floor session. State Representative Terese Berceau (D-Madison) cited concerns it would lead to a flood of special interest money in the legislature. She also warned that the bill could lead to fighting between the tribes, as they compete to protect their own casinos.
The only two tribes to support the bill are the Forest County Potawatomi and Ho-Chunk Nation , which operate the largest casinos in the state.
The legislation now heads to the State Senate.