Lumbee Gaming Ordinance Certified, Referendum Expected in December

The certification follows the Lumbee Tribal Council's 14-2 vote on Oct. 15 approving the ordinance, which establishes a legal and regulatory framework for gaming on tribal lands.

Under the Lumbee Constitution, ordinances affecting fundamental rights must be certified by the tribal chairman before advancing to a referendum of the tribal membership. Lowery's certification formally starts that process and places the issue before Lumbee voters.

"I want to thank the Lumbee Tribal Council for the hard work and dedication they put into this effort," Lowery said after signing the measure. He credited the council's public outreach efforts for giving tribal citizens an opportunity to share their views during the ordinance's development.

The Lumbee Tribe Election Board is expected to announce the referendum date in the coming days. During discussions surrounding the ordinance, tribal officials indicated the vote could occur between Dec. 10 and Dec. 15, though no official date has yet been confirmed.

The referendum marks the latest chapter in a gaming debate that has unfolded throughout the year. In June, Lumbee voters rejected a proposed constitutional amendment that would have authorized gaming, with approximately 62% of participating voters opposing the measure.

Following that result, Tribal Council directed its legal team to examine alternative pathways available under tribal and federal law, ultimately leading to the gaming ordinance approved earlier this month.

Under the referendum process, tribal citizens may vote to rescind the ordinance. If rescission efforts fail, the ordinance will take effect. Tribal rules also require at least 30% participation among eligible voters for a rescission vote to be valid.

The outcome could have significant implications for the Lumbee Tribe's long-term economic development plans, as the ordinance establishes the legal foundation for future gaming opportunities should tribal leaders pursue them.

What Happens Next?

The next major milestone will be the announcement of the official referendum date by the Lumbee Tribe Election Board. Once the election is scheduled, Lumbee citizens will have the opportunity to determine whether the gaming ordinance remains in effect or is rescinded through the constitutional referendum process.

The vote is expected to draw significant attention because it follows the tribe's June rejection of a gaming-related constitutional amendment and will provide another measure of member support for gaming as a potential economic development tool.

Why the Referendum Matters

The ordinance itself does not authorize the construction of a casino. Instead, it establishes the tribal legal framework for regulating gaming activities should future opportunities emerge.

Supporters view the measure as an important step toward expanding economic development options for the tribe, while opponents continue to express concerns about gaming and its long-term impacts. The referendum will ultimately determine whether the ordinance becomes part of tribal law.