In a historic move, the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute tribes have called upon Colorado’s state government to uphold their commitments and allow the tribes to participate in sports betting—a step that could redefine tribal gaming and economic development.
A Call for Equality and Respect
The Ute leaders’ plea is a reminder of the state’s turbulent history with tribal relations, marked by unfulfilled promises and overlooked treaties. The tribes have made significant strides in overcoming these challenges, but recent legislative oversights, particularly regarding sports betting, threaten to undermine this progress.
The 2019 legalization of sports betting in Colorado through Proposition DD excluded the tribes from online betting opportunities, confining them to in-person betting at their casinos. This limitation not only hinders their economic potential but also disregards the sovereignty and rights of the tribal nations.
The Stakes of Inclusion
For the Ute tribes, sports betting is more than a revenue stream—it’s a symbol of parity and recognition. The current restrictions on online sports betting represent a broader issue of inequality, where tribal entities are sidelined in favor of larger, non-tribal corporations.
The tribes’ leaders have emphasized the need for the state to rectify this imbalance by amending the law to include them in the burgeoning online gambling market. Such inclusion would not only boost tribal revenues but also affirm their rightful place in the state’s economic landscape.
Beyond Gaming: A Future in Balance
The implications of sports betting extend beyond gaming revenues. The Ute tribes envision a future where they can leverage these funds to enhance healthcare, education, and water rights—critical areas that have long been underfunded.
The call to action is clear: Colorado must align its legislative practices with its stated commitments to the tribes. By doing so, the state can foster a more equitable partnership that benefits all parties and sets a precedent for honoring tribal sovereignty.
