When Does The Texas State Gambling Agreement End? Complete Timeline
The gambling treaty in Texas, specifically referring to the gaming agreements between Native American tribes and the state, is a complex topic that requires careful examination. The primary agreement in question involves the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, which operates the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino in Eagle Pass.
Currently, there is no specific expiration date for the gambling treaty in Texas. The agreement operates under the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) of 1988, which does not include a sunset provision or expiration date. This means the treaty remains in effect indefinitely unless modified through mutual agreement or legal intervention.
The Kickapoo tribe's gaming rights are protected under federal law, and their agreement with Texas allows them to operate Class II gaming facilities. This includes games like bingo, pull-tabs, and certain non-banked card games. Unlike some agreements in other states, the Texas gaming compact doesn't have a predetermined end date.
It's important to note that while the treaty doesn't expire, it can be amended or renegotiated if both parties agree. Any changes would require approval from both the tribe and the state government, as well as the U.S. Department of Interior.
For those interested in the status of gambling treaties in Texas, here are the key points to remember:
• The current gaming agreement has no expiration date • It operates under federal law (IGRA) • Modifications require mutual consent • The agreement primarily affects the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe • Only Class II gaming is permitted under the current arrangement
While other states may have gambling treaties with specific expiration dates, Texas maintains an open-ended agreement that continues unless specifically modified or terminated through legal channels. This arrangement provides stability for both the tribe's gaming operations and the state's regulatory framework.
If you're looking to understand the future of tribal gaming in Texas, focus on potential legislative changes or new agreements rather than an expiration date, as the current treaty remains in effect indefinitely.
