Jena Choctaws seek support for Class III gaming

Thursday, June 14, 2007  

The Jena Band of Choctaw Indians in Louisiana is seeking support for a Class III gaming compact.

The tribe recently received a reservation proclamation from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The decision allows the tribe to open a Class II facility without state approval.

The tribe, however, wants to negotiate a Class III compact with the state. But Gov. Kathleen Blanco (D) has refused to do so.

The tribe could seek approval from the Interior Department to operate the same types of Class III machines that are already legal in the state. Other tribes already offer slot machines and table games.

The tribe is presenting its casino plan to Grant Parish tonight. Parish leaders previously voted 6-1 against Class III gaming.

Get the Story:
Jena Band to present casino plan before Grant Parish Police Jury (The Alexandria Town Talk 6/13)