Hundreds rally at the Wisconsin State Capitol in support of the Menominee Nation on February 18, 2015. Photo from Facebook
After being rejected in Wisconsin, the Menominee Nation is considering an off-reservation casino in neighboring Illinois. Chairman Gary Besaw said the tribe hasn't given up on its dreams even though Gov. Scott Walker (R) killed the $800 million casino in Kenosha on January 23. He said one option involves crossing state lines. "We do not have the luxury of turning down any potential revenue source," Besaw told WISN. "We have to do our due diligence, and that is one of the options we will review." The tribe would presumably pursue the casino under the two-part determination provisions of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Assuming the Bureau of Indian Affairs approves, the state governor would have veto authority. Riverboat gaming and video gaming are legal in Illinois, according to the Illinois Gaming Board. The tribe would be entitled to the same types of games in the state. Get the Story:
Menominee tribe considering Illinois for new casino (WISN 3/5) Bureau of Indian Affairs Documents:
Press Release | Fact Sheet: Menominee Nation Decision | Section 20 Determination: Menominee Nation Off-Reservation Casino
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