The Shinnecock Nation of New York plans to appeal a judge's decision that blocks the tribe from opening a gaming facility on ancestral territory.

The tribe began preliminary work for a casino on a 79-acre parcel known as the Westwoods. But the state sued to stop development, saying the tribe lacked sovereignty over the land.

A federal judge agreed and said the tribe lost aboriginal title to the parcel in the 17th century. The judge also cited the "disruptive" nature of the casino development and noted the tribe's lack of federal recognition.

The tribe has offered to drop the casino in exchange for a state contract to operate a gaming facility in New York City.

Get the Story:
Ruling Blocks Tribal Casino in Hamptons (The New York Times 11/1)
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Judge's decision derails Shinnecock casino bid (Newsday 10/31)
Shinnecocks Face New Challenges in Racetrack Bid (The New York Times 10/28)