PORAC, Nation’s Largest Statewide Law Enforcement Association, Endorses Historic New Indian Gaming Agreements

SACRAMENTO –The Coalition to Protect California’s Budget & Economy today announced that the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC) has formally endorsed the four historic state-tribal Indian gaming agreements negotiated by the Governor and ratified by the Legislature with the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians; the Morongo Band of Mission Indians; the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians; and the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation. PORAC opposes referendum efforts to cancel the agreements.

"These new Indian gaming agreements are very important for public safety in California, especially in light of our state's budget problems," said Ron Cottingham, President of PORAC. "The agreements can provide more than $9 billion in new state revenues without raising taxes or increasing debt, revenues that will help pay for public safety, education and other vital public services statewide. They will also increase coordination between the tribes and local police and fire agencies. The agreements will provide statewide benefits for California taxpayers, for public safety and for local communities."

Additionally, the compacts require increased state oversight of the tribes’ gaming operations through random inspections and audits.

PORAC is the largest statewide law enforcement association in the country, representing 61,000 rank-and-file peace officers and 760 local peace officers associations. PORAC joins a broad coalition of public safety, taxpayer, education, labor, local government, business, Indian Tribes and community groups in supporting the four agreements and opposing the referendum efforts.

To see our latest member list, visit the Who We Are section of our website www.YesforCalifornia.com.

Media with additional inquiries about the Coalition to Protect California’s Budget & Economy can contact Roger Salazar at (916) 444-8897.