Casino Stalker | Litigation

Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe awaits decision in gaming lawsuit

Thursday, April 24, 2014

The Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts is waiting to hear whether a gaming lawsuit will be heard in federal or state court.

The tribe is being sued by the state over plans for a Class II facility on its reservation on the island of Martha's Vineyard. The tribe wants the case heard in federal court but Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley (D), who is running for governor, wants to keep it in the state system.

A venue change is significant because the Massachusetts Supreme Court previously ruled that the tribe must comply with state laws. The issue does not appear to have been settled by the federal courts.

Judge Dennis Saylor heard arguments on the venue change but hasn't issued a decision.

Get the Story:
Attorney General rejects Aquinnah tribe's claim (The Cape Cod Times 4/24)
Adviser’s casino ties could hurt Martha Coakley's gov bid (The Boston Herald 4/24)

Relevant Documents:
Solicitor Letter to Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe (August 23, 2013)
NIGC Letter to Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe (October 25, 2013)
Press Release: GSB Client Aquinnah Wampanoag to be First to Game in Massachusetts (November 12, 2013)