Indian Gaming > Ruling keeps UKB casino open pending NIGC action

January 31, 2006

Ruling keeps UKB casino open pending NIGC action

A copy of the judge's order and ruling in UKB v. Oklahoma can be found at http://www.indianz.com/docs/court/ukb012605.pdf.

A federal judge has ordered state and federal officials to stay away from the United Keetoowah Band's casino in Oklahoma pending further action from the National Indian Gaming Commission.

State and federal officials have been trying to shut down the casino because they say it isn't located on "Indian land" as required by the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. But U.S. District Judge Ronald A. White said the NIGC's decision on the status of the tribe's land was faulty [NIGC Letter].

The Cherokee Nation also wants the casino closed. White criticized the tribe, saying one of its friend of the court briefs "came dangerously close to affirmatively misrepresenting the law," The Oklahoman reported.

White remanded the land determination to NIGC and said the casino can stay open until the issue is resolved.

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Judge's ruling on gaming case keeps casino open (The Oklahoman 1/31)
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