United Auburn Indian Community loses suit against new casino

Friday, October 14, 2016

The Enterprise Rancheria of California held a sunrise groundbreaking ceremony for the $170 million Fire Mountain Casino on April 8, 2016. Photo by Yuba County / Facebook

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The United Auburn Indian Community of California has lost a decision in a lawsuit that challenges a new tribal casino.

The tribe accused Gov. Jerry Brown (D) of overstepping his authority when he approved a casino for the Enterprise Rancheria. But the 3rd District Court of Appeal said his action was entirely lawful.

Brown approved the casino under the two-part determination provisions of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. The law recognizes a state governor's authority in such situations, the court noted.

The Auburn Tribe operates the Thunder Valley Casino in Lincoln. The facility is about 22 miles from the Enterprise Rancheria's gaming site.

The Enterprise Rancheria broke ground on the Fire Mountain Casino in April but construction has been put on hold amid numerous legal challenges, including the one filed by the Auburn Tribe.

Read More on the Story:
Court upholds governor's power to allow Indian casinos (AP 10/14)

California 3rd District Court of Appeal Decisions:
United Auburn Indian Community v. Brown. (October 13, 2016)
Citizens For a Better Way v. Brown (October 13, 2016) $P Tribal Leader Opinions on H.R.5079, the California Compact Protection Act:
Maryann McGovran: Don't be fooled by efforts of 'wealthy' tribes (5/13)
Claudia Gonzales: Off-reservation gaming fuels attacks on tribes (5/13)

Bureau of Indian Affairs Documents:
Press Release | Fact Sheet | Two-Part Determination Letter

Federal Register Notice:
Land Acquisitions; Enterprise Rancheria of Maidu Indians of California (December 3, 2012)