California Indian tribes took a big step Thursday toward getting their day in court. Tribes want access to state courts to challenge the way California cardrooms operate games such as blackjack and baccarat.

The California Assembly unanimously voted 62-0 to approve SB549, the Tribal Nations Access to Justice Act.

Co-author and Assembly Majority Leader Cecilia Aguiar-Curry argued for the bill.

“The fact is this dispute is about a provision in the state constitution,” Aguiar-Curry said. “State courts are the only appropriate venue. SB549 does not take a side in this dispute at all. It does take a side on whether the questions get answered.”

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