House defeats Michigan off-reservation casino bills

Thursday, June 26, 2008  

Legislation that would have allowed two Michigan tribes to open off-reservation casinos was defeated in the House on Wednesday.

H.R.2176 and H.R.4115 settle land claims for the Bay Mills Indian Community and the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, respectively. The bills allow the tribe to acquire new properties, away from their existing reservations, and open casinos.

A majority of Democrats and Republicans voted against the legislation, which was the subject of considerable debate. Only 96 Democrats and 25 Republicans supported the bills.

Get the Story:
Dingell loses battle with Conyers on gambling bill (The Hill 6/26)
Plan for Indian casinos defeated (The Detroit Free Press 6/26)
U.S. House rejects 2 Michigan casinos (The Detroit News 6/26)
Abramoff blamed in casino defeat (The Port Huron Times-Herald 6/26)
Conyers helps lead casino bill's defeat (the Port Hurton Times Herald 6/26)
Nevada contingent helps House reject Michigan tribal casinos (AP 6/26)
Local hopes for downstate casinos blocked in Washington (Soo Today 6/25)