A federal judge said the New York City can proceed with a lawsuit against eight smoke shops on the Poospatuck Reservation.

The judge said the smoke shops can't assert a sovereign immunity defense because they aren't operated by the Unkechaug Indian Nation, a state-recognized tribe. But Chief Harry Wallace said the businesses will eventually prevail.

The lawsuit claims the smoke shops have deprived New York City of $195 million in taxes and the state of $525 million.

Get the Story:
Judge: NYC suit against Mastic smoke shops can proceed (Newsday 3/17)

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