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If you’re looking for a detailed resource on tribal gambling in Texas, be sure to consult this page.
Tribal gambling is a captivating aspect in the overall gambling scene throughout the country. It is fascinating to observe that in certain states where commercial casinos or other gambling venues are non-existent, there exists a remarkable abundance of Native American casinos within their boundaries. A noteworthy example of this can be seen in Oklahoma, which proudly hosts more than 100 such casinos. Even states like Texas, which have relatively limited legal gambling opportunities, feature tribal gambling establishments, albeit with specific limitations and regulations in place.
Tribal gaming in Texas is restricted, leaving the tribes with limited choices within the Lone Star State.
Is tribal casino gambling legal in Texas?
In fact, Texas has two separate tribal casinos. One of them features both slot machines and live poker, while the other exclusively offers slot machines and is currently facing legal uncertainty. The closest resemblance to an authentic casino experience in Texas is provided by the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas.
What tribes are eligible to offer gambling in Texas?
The exclusive authority to offer gambling within the state lies with the Kickapoo Tribe. In accordance with the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988, their Lucky Eagle establishment allows federally recognized tribes to engage in legal gambling activities on their reservation lands.
Tribes hold the legal power to offer Class I and Class II gambling, supervised by the National Indian Gaming Commission, irrespective of the state’s position. However, if tribes intend to offer Class III gambling, such as casino-style table games, they must establish a compact with the state. It remains uncertain whether the Kickapoos have opted not to pursue this agreement with Texas or if the state has declined the opportunity for discussion.
Other tribes in Texas
Two federally recognized tribes, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas and the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo (Tigua), exist in the state. It seems logical to expect that these tribes should be permitted to offer Class II gambling, considering their recognition. However, both tribes are encountering resistance from the state, mainly due to the Restoration Act of 1987.
The law has become a widely recognized paradox. On one hand, it effectively restored the federal recognition of both tribes, a status they had lost years ago. It also played a vital role in reclaiming reservation lands, empowering them to govern themselves and, notably, allowing tribal gambling. However, amidst these advantages, the law also included provisions that forbid the tribes from offering any games deemed illegal under Texas law.
Gaming activities that are considered illegal under the laws of the State of Texas are strictly prohibited on the reservation and tribal lands. Any person who is found to be violating this prohibition will face the same civil and criminal penalties outlined in the laws of the State of Texas.
Contrarily, the tribes have consistently encountered efforts from the state to obstruct their participation in gambling endeavors. Initially, the Alabama-Coushattas managed to establish a venue in the early 2000s; unfortunately, they were compelled to shut it down under the influence of state authorities. Nevertheless, in 2016, they successfully reopened their facility under the name Naskila Gaming and have been continuously entangled in a protracted conflict with the state ever since.
The Tiguas opened their own casino in 1993, but were forced to close it in 2002 due to enforcement threats. However, they reestablished the venue in 2016, transforming it into a live music venue without any gambling. Despite facing challenges, the Tiguas have remained steadfast in their fight, arguing that the state’s interpretation of the Restoration Act should not be limited in scope as they desire.
Since 2016, the Tiguas and the state of Texas have encountered successes and challenges in various legal disputes. The Alabama-Coushattas have actively supported the Tiguas throughout this process. Recently, both parties had the opportunity to present their arguments to the US Supreme Court in February 2022, bringing this legal battle closer to its conclusion. Although there are speculations suggesting that the justices may be inclined towards the tribes’ stance, no definitive statement can be made until a final decision is reached.
Tribal casinos in Texas
In Texas, casino gambling options are scarce, with just two choices available. It is worth noting that only one of these establishments offers live poker. Additionally, both casinos belong to Class II gaming and do not offer table games. The slot games offered are exclusively electronic bingo machines.
In the past, the El Paso region had the Speaking Rock Entertainment Center, a tribal facility that served the area. Regrettably, because of the state attorney general’s intimidating actions and the potential legal repercussions, the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo (Tigua) tribe, the owner of the facility, made the decision to cease its gambling services. Currently, the center’s main focus is on offering live music and food choices, with no involvement in gambling activities.
Lucky Eagle Casino Hotel
- Location: Eagle Pass, TX
- Do you have an interest in gaming? We offer a diverse range of 3,300 bingo machines that resemble slot games, along with live bingo games.
- Is a live poker room accessible?
The Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino Hotel is positioned on a section of the tribe’s 120-acre reservation, conveniently situated near Eagle Pass. Its exceptional location provides guests with breathtaking views of the Rio Grande and easy access to the US-Mexico border. Moreover, the tribe also oversees lands and enterprises on the opposite side of the border.
The Lucky Eagle falls under the Class II category and boasts a wide array of around 3,300 electronic bingo machines that closely resemble slot machines. Moreover, it offers live bingo games from Wednesday to Sunday and also features live poker, although there are no table games available on-site. In addition to these offerings, the establishment offers six restaurants, three bars, a hotel, and a multitude of live entertainment options. Furthermore, there are several other stores and facilities located on the reservation lands.
The Lucky Eagle casino in Eagle Pass, Texas, is not widely known or visited by people in the state due to its remote location. Being about 2.5 hours away from the nearest major city, San Antonio, makes it inconvenient for even those Texans who are aware of the casino to make frequent trips to Eagle Pass.
Naskila Gaming
- Location: Livingston, TX
- Do we have any games on offer? We possess a total of 800 electronic bingo machines.
- Poker? No
The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas owns and operates Naskila Gaming, a gaming facility spanning 30,000 square feet, situated on their reservation. Positioned a short distance east of Livingston, around an hour’s drive north of Houston, the tribe benefits from its strategic location near the state’s largest city. Nevertheless, the question of Naskila’s legality remains a contentious issue within the state of Texas and the judicial system.
When comparing Lucky Eagle to Naskila, it is evident that Naskila’s offerings are more limited. The Naskila venue only offers around 800 electronic bingo machines, which restricts the variety of gaming options available. Furthermore, visitors to Naskila have a limited choice of only two restaurants and no hotel accommodations on the reservation.
What kinds of games can I play?
Currently, there are no full-service casinos with Class III gaming available at any tribal sites in Texas. As a result, there are no legally authorized table games within the state. However, taking into account the two establishments, here are the options that are currently offered.
- Slot machines/electronic bingo
- Bingo
- Live poker
If the law remains unchanged, the state will continue to not provide any alternative choices for casino gambling. As a result, individuals who have a fondness for blackjack and craps will have to venture outside the state boundaries to partake in their favorite games.
Texas tribal gambling outlook
The recent Supreme Court ruling may bring about substantial transformations in the gambling landscape of Texas. This ruling specifically addresses the legality of gambling on reservation lands for two Texas tribes, potentially legitimizing Naskila Gaming and creating opportunities for the revival of Speaking Rock Casino. While the addition of another casino in Texas may not have as significant an effect as it would in a smaller state due to its immense size, it would still mark a pivotal departure from the longstanding tradition in Texas.
Granting federal recognition to these three Native American communities in Texas could serve as a potential catalyst, inspiring other tribes to actively seek recognition from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Despite the state’s rich history with various tribes, only these three have successfully united and navigated the process to attain official recognition.
Speculating on the potential addition of more tribes to Texas’ federally recognized groups is purely speculative. However, the significant revenue generated from gambling by current tribes could motivate others to become more organized and interested in obtaining federal recognition.
Texas tribal gaming FAQ
What is the gambling age at tribal casinos in Texas?
To consume alcoholic beverages, you must be 21 years of age or older.
Who oversees tribal gambling in Texas?
The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act acknowledges the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) in the United States as the authoritative entity entrusted with the task of supervising tribal gambling operations across the nation, including those within Texas.
Why are table games not available at Texas tribal casinos?
According to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), both tribal venues in Texas fall into the category of Class II gambling facilities. This means that they are prohibited from offering table games such as blackjack or roulette. To be able to provide a full range of casino games, either of these venues would need to enter into negotiations with the state government. In 1995, the Kickapoo Tribe attempted to initiate negotiations, but state officials declined to participate in the discussions. Consequently, the tribe took legal action to compel the state to engage in negotiations. Unfortunately, despite a 12-year legal battle, the tribe was unsuccessful in achieving its desired outcome.
Are any more casinos going to open in Texas?
Another Class II facility may potentially reopen soon, as the Speaking Rock Entertainment Center, previously a bingo casino, now operates as a music venue owned by Ysleta del Sur Pueblo. The Tiguas are eagerly awaiting a positive outcome from their ongoing Supreme Court case, with a decision expected shortly. While it is uncertain whether this legal victory would lead to the casino reopening, it is certainly a possibility.
At present, there are no eligible entities in Texas with the authority to establish casinos. The three tribes in Texas that possess federal recognition are already operational, and there is no indication of any additional Texas tribe currently pursuing recognition.
What responsible gambling resources are available at tribal casinos?
Both the Lucky Eagle and Naskila Gaming do not offer much in terms of responsible gambling options. However, Texans can benefit from various national resources. For more information and useful links, please visit our dedicated Texas Responsible Gambling page.