David Obey: “I agree with the proposition that it makes no sense to allow tribes to establish gambling casinos in territories that…”

“I agree with the proposition that it makes no sense to allow tribes to establish gambling casinos in territories that have no relationship to the tribe. But, I am voting against this bill because I believe that people who disagree with me ought to have the right to offer an amendment--for example, those who want to limit Indian tribes' ability to establish off-reservation casinos but would make an exception if the effort is supported by local officials--county board, city council, mayor--or if it is approved by referendum. But, this bill is arrogantly presented in a take it or leave it fashion which would not allow amendments to accomplish that. Without amendments such as that, this bill is going nowhere. It is simply a cynical effort by the Committee Chairman and the House Republican leadership to pose for political holy pictures by pretending that they are doing something by pushing a bill that is going nowhere. Even though I am troubled by some provisions of the bill, I could vote for it after the House has had an opportunity to consider legitimate amendments to it. But, I will not accept something that is arbitrarily presented on a take it or leave it basis. One problem in dealing with this issue is that people on both sides of the question have abused the process.…”