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Those behind the Muskegon County casino project should be concerned if a recently proposed Michigan House resolution accurately reflects the prevailing sentiments. The resolution’s language is hostile, and the lower chamber of the state legislature holds influence in the approval process.
The interests of additional tribal gambling groups in Michigan and the potential expansion of gambling in the Great Lakes State are being debated. It remains uncertain whether these factors will pose a significant obstacle for the proposed casino near Fruitport Township.
The resolution and its possible meaning for Muskegon County Casino approval
The House recently passed a resolution addressing the matter of Michigan casinos. In essence, it expresses opposition towards the unregulated expansion of off-reservation gaming, which is believed to be inconsistent with the existing terms of tribes’ gaming agreements.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is urged by the resolution to take a stance against new tribal casino ventures that pertain to off-reservation locations. This resolution garners the backing of three tribal groups, which currently manage casinos in the nearby vicinity.
A legislative body’s resolution can be likened to an opinion expressed by an attorney general’s office. While it is an official statement made by a person in a governmental position, it does not possess the legal authority to enforce its provisions.
However, this doesn’t imply that it’s an insignificant move. The location chosen for the casino is not within the boundaries of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians’ reservation. Consequently, the tribal group, which currently operates a casino in Manistee, would have to engage in new negotiations with the state to amend their agreement.
Regardless, it was already expected that the tribe would only be permitted to operate one casino according to the compact. Everything was going smoothly until last week.
The Final Environmental Impact Statement, a crucial step towards obtaining federal approval for the casino, was published by the Federal Bureau of Indian Affairs in October 2020.
Although this resolution is unlikely to impact federal approval procedures, its consequences at the state level are significant. Nonetheless, local community and tribal leaders remain optimistic about achieving success in the long run.
What the resolution points to and what the casino’s backers can do about it
Legislative approval is necessary for any fresh agreement between Michigan and the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians. However, obtaining such approval from the House may pose challenges, as indicated by this resolution. Furthermore, finding a clear-cut compromise on this matter seems to be elusive.
House members are against the establishment of new casinos that are not owned by tribes. The suggested location for this casino is conveniently situated near Interstate 96 and is suitable for such an establishment. It used to be a racetrack and has excellent accessibility. Furthermore, a representative from the Little River Band mentioned that numerous members of their community reside in close proximity to the site.
The project enjoys considerable support from the local community, largely due to the projected creation of 1,500 new permanent jobs once the casino is operational. Consequently, it is not practical to relocate the project to a different area within the tribal group’s reservation.
Even though there could be a potential impasse, the Little River Band maintains their optimism.
Ottawa spokesperson Tom Shields stated that our current priority is collaborating with the governor to secure approval for both the process and the casino.
The smoothness of that process might have encountered an obstacle. The fate of the casino proposal, whether it gets delayed or completely rejected, depends on persuading the decision-makers in Lansing.
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