The shuttered Bay Mills Indian Community casino in Vanderbilt, Michigan. Photo © Bay Mills News
The U.S. Supreme Court was back in session this morning but the justices didn't issue a decision in Michigan v. Bay Mills Indian Community, an Indian gaming case. Oral arguments took place on December 2, 2013. Cases heard around the same time, and even more recently, have already been adjudicated so the court has been taking a longer time than expected to release an opinion. The outcome will determine whether the state of Michigan can sue the Bay Mills Indian Community for operating an off-reservation casino on land that has not been placed in trust or restricted status. Tribal advocates fear the court could significantly erode the doctrine of sovereign immunity. Other states are watching the case to determine whether they can sue tribes for activities that have traditionally been off limits. You can listen to the oral arguments on the Supreme Court website or on the Indianz.Com Soundcloud.
Relevant Documents:
Oral Argument Transcript | Supreme Court Docket Sheet No. 12-515 | Supreme Court Order List 6th Circuit Decision:
Michigan v. Bay Mills Indian Community (August 15, 2012)
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