Native Issues
Gaming dispute
Apr 1, 2025

Interior Department suspends gaming eligibility for California tribe's casino project

The U.S. Department of the Interior has temporarily suspended a gaming eligibility determination for the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians’ $700 million casino project in Vallejo, Calif. The agency cited concerns that it had not fully reviewed evidence related to the "restored lands" exception under federal law. While the tribe’s land remains in trust, officials are accepting additional legal analysis until May 30. The suspension follows lawsuits from three California tribes challenging the project’s approval.

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