The state of Alabama can't go after the Poarch Band of Creek Indians for offering Class II games, the outgoing general counsel of the National Indian Gaming Commission said. Gov. Bob Riley (R) started a task force to shut down non-Indian operated electronic gaming facilities in the state. He contends the effort will affect the tribe's operation. But NIGC attorney Penny Coleman said the tribe is protected unless the state decides to outlaw bingo altogether. "If bingo is authorized in the state, the Poarch Band (of Creek Indians) can play bingo," she said at the Southern Gaming Summit, The Mobile Press-Register reported. The state, generally, lacks jurisdiction in Indian Country. Get the Story:
Federal official: Gov. Bob Riley's bingo crackdown can't extend to Indian casinos (The Mobile Press-Register 5/6)