Senators OK casino liquor bill

BOISE - The Clearwater River Casino's effort to secure a liquor license for its new convention center cleared the final legislative hurdle Thursday, and the proposal now heads to the governor's office.

The Idaho Senate approved legislation that would allow federally recognized Indian tribes to get a liquor license if they own and operate a convention center and lodging facility on reservation land that has at least 35,000 square feet of space and 50 rooms.

The Nez Perce Tribe owns the Clearwater River Casino east of Lewiston.

The tribe broke ground last year on a $16 million casino expansion. The project includes a 400-person event center, as well as space for another 200 gambling machines. It's expected to open in June, creating 25 to 30 new jobs.

"This is not just about an entertainment center getting a liquor license," said Sen. Dan Johnson, R-Lewiston. "This is part of a bigger plan the Nez Perce Tribe has to be self-sufficient."

Johnson noted funds generated by the casino and other tribal business enterprises go to benefit education, law enforcement, social services and other programs.

The vote was 27-7, with Johnson, Sen. Sheryl Nuxoll, R-Cottonwood, and Sen. Dan Schmidt, D-Moscow, voting in support.