BAKERSFIELD, CA — The Tejon Indian Tribe celebrated the grand opening of the Tejon Hard Rock Hotel & Casino today, a historic milestone made possible by the passage of Senate Bill 910, legislation moved three years ago in partnership with Chairman Octavio Escobedo III, the Tejon Indian Tribe, local leaders, labor, and community stakeholders.

“Three years ago, working in partnership with Chairman Escobedo III, the Tejon Indian Tribe, local leaders, and our community, we moved Senate Bill 910 forward, opening the door for this project. Today, we are proud to see that shared work become a reality,” said Senator Melissa Hurtado.

"Today marks a historic moment for the Tejon Indian Tribe and the entire Kern County community. The opening of Hard Rock Casino Tejon is not only a celebration of our Tribe's heritage and resilience but also a bold step forward in creating opportunity and prosperity for future generations. This project will bring thousands of jobs, fuel economic growth and serve as a gathering place where culture, entertainment and community come together. We are proud to share this milestone with our friends, neighbors and partners who helped make this vision a reality," stated Octavio Escobedo, III Chairman of the Tejon Tribe.

The new casino and resort, one of the largest private investments in Kern County’s history, will create thousands of construction and permanent jobs, expand local tourism, and bring new opportunities to families across the region.

“This opening reflects years of collaboration, respect for Tribal sovereignty, and a commitment to bringing long-overdue opportunity to Kern County,” added Hurtado. “Today belongs to the Tejon Indian Tribe and to every family in Kern County who will benefit from the jobs and investment created here.”

The project represents a generational moment for the Tejon Indian Tribe, whose ancestors have lived in the region since time immemorial. Beyond entertainment and hospitality, the development includes major infrastructure improvements, public safety commitments, workforce pathways, and local vendor opportunities.

Senate Bill 910, passed with urgency in 2022, ratified the Tribe’s gaming compact with the State of California, paving the way for the development of the casino, resort, and associated facilities.

The Tejon Hard Rock Casino is expected to deliver long-term economic activity while strengthening self-governance and opportunity for the Tribe and the broader community.

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