BIA asked for new study on Spokane Tribe off-reservation casino


Artist's rendering of proposed off-reservation casino. Image from STEP: Spokane Tribe Economic Project

The Bureau of Indian Affairs is being asked to conduct a new study of the Spokane Tribe off-reservation casino in Washington.

Commissioners in Spokane County claim there's new information about the impact of the proposed Spokane Tribe Economic Project on the nearby Fairchild Air Force Base. Prior studies, however, have said there will be no adverse effects.

The BIA is considering the casino under the two-part determination provisions of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. The law gives Gov. Jay Inslee (D) veto authority over the project.

The environmental impact statement for the West Plains Mixed-Use Development was published over a year ago. It's not known when the BIA will make a final decision.

Get the Story:
Spokane County seeks second federal study of Airway Heights casino (The Spokesman Review 4/9)

Federal Register Notice:
Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Proposed Spokane Tribe of Indians West Plains Casino and Mixed Use Project, City of Airway Heights, Spokane County, WA (February 1, 2013)

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Column: Campaign against Spokane Tribe's casino shows cracks (02/26)

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