JUSTICE WHITE delivered the opinion of the Court. Though far from an unreserved good, these facilities have provided some tribes with economic resources they previously lacked. Cherokee scholar Jeff Corntassel afterward declared that federal policy is no longer one of self-determination for tribal nations (See Special Message on Indian Affairs) but one of “ forced federalism.” Today nearly 250 tribal nations operate more than 500 gaming facilities. The act requires tribal nations to negotiate with the states within which they are located if they wish to operate casinos. In 1988, Congress responded to the Supreme Court decision by passing the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act to add a structure to gambling operations on reservations. The Cabezon sued California in federal court, and when the case reached the Supreme Court, the Court ruled that the state had no authority to prevent the Cabezons’ actions. The state attempted to shut down these gambling operations, contending they violated California policy.

In 1986, they operated a bingo hall and a card parlor on their land where people played poker. The Cabazon Band of Mission Indians have a small ranchería (reservation) near Palm Springs, California.