The state of Massachusetts is asking a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit field by a non-Indian casino developer.
K.G. Urban Enterprises wants to open a casino in the southeastern part of the state. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has agreed to accept bids for the region so the company's lawsuit is moot, state attorneys said in court papers, The New Bedford Standard-Times reported.
The Mashpee Wampanoag
Tribe is still pursuing a casino in the region. But a decision on its land-into-trust application appears to be delayed at the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Assistant Secretary Kevin Washburn, the head of the BIA, promised the tribe he would make a decision this spring. With June approaching, it's not clear if he will meet his self-imposed deadline.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission, in the meantime, will be announcing its schedule for accepting non-Indian bids, State House News Services reported.
Get the Story:
State seeks dismissal of casino developer's suit
(The New Bedford Standard-Times 5/29)
Gaming Commission Chairman Stephen Crosby: "Just going to do our thing"
(State House News Services 5/29)
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