The Cowlitz Tribe of Washington says its proposed casino won't be affected by the new Section 20 regulations.
The Indian
Gaming Regulatory Act bars gaming on lands acquired after 1988. But Section 20 contains four exceptions, including one for newly recognized tribes like the Cowlitz.
In a November 23, 2005, decision, the National Indian Gaming Commission concluded that the tribe qualifies for the exception. So the new Section 20 rules can't stop the casino, council member Phil Harju said.
The proposed Cowlitz Casino Resort would be located on 152 acres in Clark County. The project is still undergoing environmental reviews.
Get the Story:Cowlitz: New federal rules can't block casino (The Columbian 5/21)