Jena Choctaw Band sues state over failed compact

Wednesday, June 15, 2005  

The Jena Band of Choctaw Indians filed a lawsuit in federal court on June 9 against Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco (D) over her refusal to negotiate a Class III gaming compact.

The complaint [PDF: 44 pages] says Blanco's refusal runs counter to the types of gaming already allowed in the state. The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe, the Coushatta Tribe and the Chitimacha Tribe have compacts to operate Class III games.

The tribe previously negotiate a compact with former governor Mike Foster but it was rejected by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Blanco has refused to negotiate, saying the state doesn't need any more casinos.

Get the Story:
Jena Band sues Blanco over casino (The Baton Rouge Advocate 6/15)