Support by Texas community leaders helps bill pass unanimously
WASHINGTON D.C. (Texas Insider Report) Its truly an honor to receive such a positive response to the House passage of H.R. 759 from leaders throughout the nine counties of the 36th Congressional District. This is the result of incredibly hard work and Im proud to have our local county & community leaders showing their support for the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas" said Cong. Brian Babin after his bill the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo & Alabama-Coushatta Tribes of Texas Equal and Fair Opportunity Settlement Act (H.R. 759) unanimously passed the House.
It was a big win for the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas as the bill would keep Naskila Gaming the Class II Indian Gaming facility on their reservation open if it passes the U.S. Senate and is signed into law by President Trump.
Supporters of the bill citing the estimated $140 million the gaming facility injects into the local economy each year said it will have a significant impact on economic development for the region.
The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas has tremendous historical significance in the state and we want to continue our part in providing jobs and ensuring the future economic well-being in Deep East Texas" said Cecilia Flores Alabama-Coushatta Tribal Council Chairwoman (right).
There are 371 full-time jobs at stake and we have a moral obligation to fight or every one of the people working at Naskila Gaming.
Our alcohol-free facility is making a significant difference in the lives of East Texans and we will continue to pursue every legal avenue to continue operating Naskila Gaming on our Tribal lands" Flores said.
House Resolution 759 would not have unanimously passed without the steadfast leadership of both Congressmen Brian Babin (TX-36) and Will Hurd (TX-23) whos tireless efforts made it possible" she said.
The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas has been respected allies and friends to Jasper County since the days when Texas was still a young Republic and we look forward to a future bond with them that will be just as strong. Thanks to Cong. Babin for his leadership to improve the quality of life and economic strength within our communities" said Jasper County Judge Mark Allen.
This is a tremendous Economic Development boost to the Tribe and all of East Texas. Our thanks to Dr. Brian Babin and his staff for their dedication to the people of East Texas said Polk County Judge Sydney Murphy.
Texas will reap the benefit of jobs retained and families will keep the hope of providing for themselves with honorable work. Thank you Congressman Babin and your fellow legislators for standing up for what is right!" added Tyler County Judge Jacques L. Blanchette.
We appreciate Dr. Babins willingness to stand with the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas in Washington DC and ensure the people of Polk and Tyler Counties have good paying jobs. This is good for the Tribe this is good for all of us!" said Tyler County Chamber of Commerce President LeAnn Monk.
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We would also like to express our appreciation to Congressman Don Young of Alaska for providing clarification of the intent and purpose of H.R. 759 and to Natural Resources Chairman Raul Grijalva of Arizona for his commitment to navigate this bill through the committee process" said Tribal Council Chairwoman Flores.
The grassroots support throughout Deep East Texas has been overwhelming and were pleased Congress recognized the tremendous support this bill has across Texas to clarify our rights for offer electronic bingo at Naskila Gaming she said.
Today we all can enjoy this moment and tomorrow it is back to work protecting jobs economic development and continuing our battle for self- sufficiency."
Flores who met with Senator John Cornyn recently. said Cornyn indicated he would support the bill in the Senate after it passed in the House.
I know advocacy efforts will only increase as this bill moves over to the U.S. Senate" said Cong. Babin
