The U.S. Department of the Interior on Friday rejected the Wisconsin based Stockbridge-Munsee Tribe’s plan to build the state’s first casino with slot machines and table games in the Catskills.
The decision is a major setback for the Wisconsin-based tribe and a victory for New York racino operators, including Tioga Downs, who have been aggressively lobbying against the Indian tribe’s efforts.
Earlier this year, state racino operators called on Gov. Andrew Cuomo to withdraw an agreement that would allow the tribe to build the casino.
That deal was signed by David Paterson during the final hours of his governorship.
Some racino groups claimed that if Stockbridge-Munsee was allowed to open a full-fledged casino, their businesses would falter.
Racinos are restricted to slot machines or video lottery terminals.
