The Politics of Indian Gaming: Tribe/State Relations and American Federalism

Since the passage of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act in 1988, gambling on reservations has become a multibillion dollar industry. The act, however, has led to jurisdictional conflicts between tribes and states. These conflicts are redefining the position and role of Indian tribes in American federalism. As the tribes have gained autonomy, states have lostjurisdictionalpower and control. The federal government has become the arbiter in the disputes and, as such, has continued to maintain its position of supremacy and power over both tribes and states.