The Aqua Caliente Band is known for its new deals, and for going where no other tribe has been able to go before. They are known for taking risks, and for pushing the envelope – so that other tribes can do the same.  In 2004, the tribe attempted to become independent from the rules that govern the casinos and slot machines that the tribes are allowed to operate. They could not get a compact that they liked with the state of California, as they were asking to increase their 2,000 slot machines. They sponsored a ballot initiative that would allow them to basically expand as much as they want, in exchange they would pay taxes to the state at the state’s corporate rate. The initiative failed. 

Well, the times they are a changing, because when Governor Schwarzenegger signed the deal with the tribe to increase the number of slot machines, they also got permission to add another casino. With the agreement, the tribe will share their slot machine revenue with the state, and in exchange get to open a third casino.  

If the deal is ratified, the tribe will then have to decide when to add the new slot machines, and when and where it will open its new casino. The tribe does not anticipate a problem getting it ratified.

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