Legislators Find Alternative to Casino Funding

As reported by the California Press-Enterprise: "Inland legislators announced Thursday they have found a way to restore $20 million in Indian-casino revenue that Gov. Schwarzenegger took away from local governments last month.

"Schwarzenegger refused to distribute the money to local governments, saying counties had failed to file paperwork showing how they spent money from the tribal-gaming account last year. However, several state agencies verified that counties had turned in their paperwork but the governor's office didn't check with those agencies.

"State Sen. Jim Battin, R-La Quinta, said he hopes his new bill will clear up any confusion about where the reports are supposed to be filed -- and get the money out quickly to the local governments.

"…A spokesman for the governor said Schwarzenegger will consider the bill, but is concerned about making sure local governments account for how they will spend the money…"