$stalker The Ione Band of Miwok Indians has received a favorable Indian lands determination from the Interior Department.

A letter [PDF] from Interior associate solicitor Carl Artman says the tribe qualifies for an exception under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Artman, who is the nominee to head the Bureau of Indian Affairs, says the Ione Band is a "restored" tribe so a 40-acre parcel in Plymouth, California, can be used for gaming.

Local officials and residents oppose the casino. They say the BIA has ignored their concerns.

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Plymouth casino boosted by Dept. of the Interior (The Amador Ledger-Dispatch 10/11)