Artist's rendering of proposed First Light Resort and Casino. Image from Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.
A federal judge heard more arguments in a lawsuit that challenges tribal provisions in H.3702, the Massachusetts Expanded Gaming Act. The law authorizes three casinos in three different regions of the state. The casino for Region C in southeastern Massachusetts is set aside for "a federally recognized tribe." The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is pursing the casino and has negotiated a Class III gaming compact with the state and submitted a land-into-trust application to the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Decisions on both matters are expected in the coming months. But K.G. Urban Enterprises, a non-Indian developer, says the tribe faces too many hurdles in the process. The company also contends the tribal set-aside violates the U.S. Constitution. As the lawsuit continues, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission is meeting next week and might open up Region C to non-Indian bidders. K.G. Urban will continue to pursue its claims even if that happens, an attorney said in court, The Cape Cod Times reported. Another provision in H.3702 anticipates opening up Region C if the tribe isn't showing progress. The tribe and Gov. Deval Patrick (D) are urging the commission to wait. Get the Story:
Casino lawsuit moving forward (The Cape Cod Times 4/12)
Mashpee Tribal Chairman Criomwell criticizes gaming commission (The Taunton Daily Gazette 4/12) Related Stories:
Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe asks gaming panel for information (4/11)
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