Tribal Casino Labor Relations and the Future of Native Nation Sovereignty

This presentation investigates how the employment of non-Indians in tribal gaming blurs the line between public and private employment, with significant implications for tribal sovereignty. While tribes educate their employees about tribal sovereignty, interviews suggest some employees view their employer as a private corporation. This view is beginning to shape public policy. A series of recent court decisions (e.g. Soaring Eagle, Little River) reveal the legal standing of tribal gaming is now in flux. As these decisions and proposed legislation in Congress work their way through the political system, the future of tribal sovereignty hangs in the balance. Implication Statement: Tribal casino labor relations may shape the future of tribal gaming and economic development