Unrecognized Burt Lake Band eyes Michigan casino

Tuesday, February 17, 2009  

The Burt Lake Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians doesn't need federal recognition to open a casino in Michigan, a lawyer for the tribe said.

The tribe can pursue state approval for a casino in Sturgis, said John Dresser, of Dresser, Dresser, Haas and Caywood. "A bill will have to be introduced, passed by a simple majority in the House and Senate, has to be signed by Gov. Granholm, and we can rock and roll from there," Dresser told Business Review Western Michigan.

The process would take much longer if the tribe was recognized, according to Dresser. He said new regulations would limit where the tribe could pursue a casino.

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