Breaking News: Interior Disapproves Catskills Casino Plans

Late Friday, the Department of Interior issued a letter rejecting the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe's plan for an off-reservation casino in the Catskills.

The letter, issued by Interior Associate Deputy Secretary James Cason, stated, "The remote location of the proposed gaming facility may encourage reservation residents to leave the reservation for an extended period to take advantage of the job opportunities created. . . . The potential departure of a significant number of reservation residents and their families could have serious and far-reaching implications for the remaining tribal community and its continuity as a community."

This reflects the current Secretary's stance on so-called "far flung" lands, but nevertheless is surprising given that the support of Governor Spitzer for a tribal casino in the Catskills.

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