Detroit mayor to testify against tribal casinos

Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick will testify against legislation to authorize two off-reservation casinos.

Kilpatrick, who is embroiled in a potential perjury scandal, is one of several witnesses who oppose H.R. 2176 and H.R. 4115. The bills settle land claims for the Bay Mills Indian Community and the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians by allowing them to engage in gaming at sites in Port Huron and Romulus.

Detroit is home to three commercial casinos, including one that is majority owned by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe. Port Huron is about 63 miles away, while Romulus is about 23 miles away. Critics are worried about the impact on the Detroit casinos.

The hearing before the House Natural Resources Committee takes place Wednesday.

Get the Story:
Detroit mayor to testify in D.C. against Indian casinos (The Detroit News 2/4)