A federal judge refused to block a statewide vote on the Narragansett Tribe's proposed casino in Rhode Island.

The judge said he couldn't block the vote because there was no "irreparable harm" in moving forward. But he said the proposal to change the state constitution to authorize the casino raised serious U.S. constitutional concerns and that it could be challenged in the future.

The tribe needs approval of state voters to open a casino in the town of West Warwick. The tribe is not allowed to go through the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act on its settlement lands.

The tribe's partner is Harrah's Entertainment.

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U.S. Court keeps casino question on Rhode Island Nov. ballot (The Providence Journal 8/9)
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