Background

In 2002, the citizens of Arizona voted in support of Proposition 202 - the Tribal-State gaming compact. In accordance with Proposition 202, the Tribe, and all Arizona gaming tribes must share a portion of gaming revenues with the State of Arizona. The Pascua Yaqui Tribe sees this not just as an obligation under the gaming compact but as a means of “giving back” to the communities within Arizona.

The information presented here is to provide guidance on how the Pascua Yaqui Tribe shall determine and administer the distribution of the 12% share of the Tribe’s annual contributions to the state required by ARS § 5-601.02(H)(4) and the Pascua Yaqui Tribe-State of Arizona Gaming Compact, Section 12(d). State law and the Compact require that distributions by the Tribe must benefit cities, towns, and counties “for government services that benefit the general public, including public safety, mitigation of impacts of gaming, and promotion of commerce and economic development.”

The Tribe may approve the distribution of the 12% Share directly to local governments or, through local governments, may also distribute the 12% Share to qualified non-profit organizations within the cities, towns and counties.

All applications are subject to review and approval/denial of the Pascua Yaqui Tribal Council. Applicants may be called on to present their program or project to members of the Tribal Council.

Priority areas for consideration include the following: