Indian gaming is big business. In 2004, Indian gaming facilities grossed over $19.4 billion and, since 1995, revenue increases have topped 10% each year. Currently, over 200 tribes operate more than 400 gaming facilities in twenty-eight states.
Along with impressive numbers, Indian gaming presents complex legal, social, and economic questions to tribes, states and the federal government. Despite eye-popping growth, critics continue to debate whether gaming is truly advantageous for Indian tribes. Tribal sovereignty suffered at the hand of Indian gaming as tribes subjected themselves to increased federal and state regulation in order to conduct gaming. Casino development has also reshaped tribal identity, changing the way tribes perceive themselves. Economically, while some Indian casinos have cashed in, other tribes have seen only limited profits. . . .