Court won't let Seneca Nation join off-reservation casino case

Monday, June 9, 2014

Workers put the finishing touches on a permanent Seneca Nation off-reservation casino in Buffalo, New York, in August 2013. Photo Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino

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The 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals won't let the Seneca Nation intervene in a lawsuit that challenges federal approval of its off-reservation casino.

A group called Citizens Against Casino Gambling in Erie County is suing the National Indian Gaming Commission for approving the Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino in downtown Buffalo. The tribe sought to intervene but the 2nd Circuit allowed the filing of an amicus brief instead.

The casino is located on land that was placed in restricted fee status under the terms of the Seneca Nation Settlement Act of 1990. Judge William Skretny ruled that the facility was legal in a decision in May 2013.

Casino opponents are asking the 2nd Circuit to overturn that decision.

Get the Story:
Court denies Indian Gaming Commission’s intervention in Buffalo suit (Buffalo Business First 6/6)

Relevant Documents:
2nd Circuit Order (May 28, 2014)
Seneca Nation Amicus Brief (May 30, 2014) Related Stories:
Opponents launch appeal in Seneca Nation gaming lawsuit (11/12)