Michigan Tribe Fights Legal Battle for Casino Expansion
Date: 2024-03-11 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: CASINO
Efforts for Expansion
For over a decade, the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians (SSM Tribe) has been striving to broaden its presence with two new casinos in Michigan. Currently running five Kewadin Casinos in Michigan’s upper peninsula, the Tribe aims to extend to Lansing and New Boston.
Land Purchase and Legal Hurdles
In 2012, the SSM Tribe acquired 2.3 acres in Lansing and 71 acres in New Boston for its casino projects. However, the US Department of Interior (DOI) declined to take the land into trust, citing the Michigan Indian Land Claims Settlement Act (MILCSA). The agency asserted the tribe couldn't use the Self-Sufficiency Fund for gambling activities.
Legal Battle Unfolds
Disputing the DOI's decision, the SSM Tribe initiated legal action in 2018, contesting the agency’s ruling. Despite the setback, the Tribe remains undeterred. Recently, it appealed to the DC Circuit Court to reverse the ruling, aiming to overturn the DOI’s refusal to take the lands into trust under MILCSA.
Potential Milestone
If the DC Circuit Court rules in favor of the Tribe, it could mark a significant advancement in its casino expansion plans. The trust acquisition would enable the development of the planned venues in Lansing and New Detroit.
Beyond Michigan
Meanwhile, in Michigan, Fanatics Betting and Gaming introduced its iGaming and sports betting app last month, expanding its operations into the thirteenth state for sports betting and the third state for Fanatics Casino.
