Minnesota Lawsuit: Running Aces Expands Tribal Casino Lawsuit
Date: 2024-05-15 Author: Robert Beloved Categories: CASINO
Running Aces, which owns a casino, racetrack and hotel in Minnesota, continues its legal battle against several tribal casinos, accusing them of violating laws and seeking monetary compensation for alleged losses. On May 14, the company filed an amended complaint, expanding the original lawsuit against Grand Casino Hinckley, Grand Casino Mille Lacs and Treasure Island Resort & Casino, and adding both Mystic Lake and Little Six, owned by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux community, to the list.
Expansion of Charges
Running Aces alleges that tribal casinos are conducting unauthorized gambling activities in violation of both federal and state laws, according to a Star Tribune report. In their expanded lawsuit, the company accuses the casino of illegally gaining an advantage in the gaming industry.
Taro Ito, CEO and President of Running Aces, expressed serious concerns about this, pointing out that the supposed exclusive right of tribal casinos to gaming in Minnesota is contrary to the law. Referring to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act 1988 (IGRA), he stressed that such claims have no merit.
Compensation Claim
In addition to the injunction request, Running Aces is seeking unspecified monetary damages from tribal casino management. They argue that offering Class II video slots and other video games violates contractual agreements and state criminal law.
Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Response
However, members of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux community, which owns Mystic Lake and Little Six casinos, responded to the lawsuit by saying their gaming offerings comply with all legal standards. They called Running Aces' claims unfounded and expressed confidence in the legality of their actions.
Broad Context
The legal dispute comes amid a broader debate in the Minnesota Legislature about expanding gambling in the state. The debate centers on issues surrounding sports betting and historic horse racing (HHR) and is raising concerns among operators of venues such as Running Aces and Canterbury Park who feel sidelined from the legislative process.
The court's decision in this case will have far-reaching consequences for the gaming industry in Minnesota and could impact gaming legislation in the state.
