Since the inception of sports betting in Colorado on May 1, 2020, the industry has experienced remarkable growth, benefiting many. However, the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Tribes are raising concerns about being left behind in this flourishing landscape. The chairmen of these two Native American tribes have come forward to address their exclusion from the legislative conversations that shaped Colorado’s sports betting framework. This issue comes to the forefront as the tribes seek parity and the ability to participate in online sports betting, a feature currently enjoyed by other casinos.
Tribal Casinos’ Perspective:
Ute Mountain Casino Hotel in Towaoc and the Southern Ute Sky Ute Casino Resort in Ignacio, both owned by the respective tribes, have been actively involved in in-person sports betting. However, the inability to offer online sports betting has created an imbalance that the tribes aim to rectify. The chairmen of the tribes, Manuel Heart and Melvin Baker, respectively, expressed disappointment that their voices were not considered during the legislative process that led to the introduction of Proposition DD in 2019.
Proposition DD and Unaddressed Concerns:
Proposition DD, a measure presented to voters in 2019, urged approval for sports betting. However, the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Tribes were not consulted during this pivotal legislative decision. This omission has ignited a debate regarding their rightful place in the evolving sports betting landscape. As sports betting tax revenues soar to new heights, with predictions reaching $24 million in the 2022-23 fiscal year, the tribes seek to address the discrepancies that hinder their participation.
Complexities and Potential Solutions:
The issue at hand is complex, as it involves a delicate balance between state, federal, and tribal laws. While state lawmakers express interest in finding a solution, they acknowledge the intricate web of legal considerations that must be navigated. One potential avenue for resolution could involve a statewide ballot action, subject to the Taxpayer Bill of Rights, which requires voter approval for significant tax changes. Additionally, state agencies are exploring rulemaking solutions that could bypass the need for legislative or electoral approval.
Impact on Future Revenue:
Ute Mountain Ute Chairman Manuel Heart emphasized the tribes’ commitment to addressing the sports betting issue as a means of securing their future revenue streams. The ability to engage in online sports betting would not only level the playing field but also ensure that the tribes can harness the full potential of this rapidly expanding industry.
The Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Tribes’ call for inclusion in Colorado’s online sports betting sphere sheds light on the complex intersections of legislative, legal, and tribal considerations. As Colorado’s sports betting landscape continues to thrive, it is imperative to ensure that all stakeholders, including Native American tribes, have an equitable opportunity to participate and benefit. Addressing these concerns not only aligns with principles of fairness and inclusivity but also holds the potential to shape a more sustainable and prosperous future for all parties involved.