Tribal gaming: compact ratification

The law gives legislative approval to the amended compact and limits CEQA review for specified actions implementing it. It is intended to support the tribe’s economic development, stability, and self-sufficiency.

What the law does ​

• Ratifies the second amendment to the tribal-state gaming compact between California and the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, executed August 4, 2026.
• Excludes execution of the amended compact and certain related tribal agreements with local governments, the California Department of Transportation, or other state agencies from CEQA’s definition of a project.
• Excludes on-reservation impacts of complying with the amended compact from CEQA project review.
• Keeps CEQA requirements in place for state agencies and local jurisdictions except for the specified exclusions.
• Takes effect immediately as an urgency law.

Who it affects ​

• The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians and its members.
• State and local governments entering agreements authorized or referenced by the amended compact.
• Surrounding communities and the California public.