Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe still discussing plans for casino

Monday, February 10, 2014  

The Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts is still discussing plans for a casino.

The tribe received federal approval to open a Class II gaming facility on its reservation on the island of Martha's Vineyard. But Chairman Tobias Vanderhoop, who took office last month, said no decisions have been made.

“All gaming options remain on the table for the Aquinnah Wampanoag people at this time and we will continue to have informational sessions for our tribal membership to keep them fully informed as our efforts progress," Vanderhoop told The Cape Cod Times.

Gov. Deval Patrick (D) is suing the tribe in state court. He claims the tribe gave up its right to gaming under the Massachusetts Indian Land Claims Settlement Act.

In 2004, the Massachusetts Supreme ruled that the tribe is subject to state law. The federal courts do not appear to have ruled on the issue.

The tribe is trying to move the suit to federal court.

Get the Story:
Tribe: No decision yet on possible Aquinnah casino (The Cape Cod Times 2/10)

Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe wants casino suit in federal court (01/02)