The State of Alaska has filed a lawsuit against the Native Village of Eklutna, the U.S. Department of the Interior, and the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC). This lawsuit is a significant development in the Eklutna Gaming Lawsuit.

The State of Alaska claims that the Chin’an Gaming Hall, which opened to the public on Monday, is operating on land unlawfully considered a Native Allotment. Alaska Attorney General Treg Taylor stated that “this challenge isn’t about gaming, it’s about jurisdiction over lands.”

Furthermore, the lawsuit highlights the complexities of Native American land rights and the ongoing debate over jurisdiction in Alaska. The State of Alaska’s decision to file the lawsuit has sparked concerns among Native American communities and raised questions about the future of gaming operations on Native Allotment land.

The U.S. Department of the Interior had previously recognized that tribes in Alaska did not have territorial jurisdiction over Alaska Native Allotments. However, in February 2024, the Interior issued a new Solicitor Opinion that disagreed with the 2021 court ruling.

The Native Village of Eklutna’s president, Aaron Leggett, responded to the lawsuit, saying it would cause enormous financial damage to the tribe and the community. He also stated that over 60% of the Chin’an Gaming Hall employees are Eklutna Tribal members.

Additionally, Leggett emphasized the gaming hall’s importance for the local community. He noted that the hall provides jobs and revenue for the tribe and the surrounding area.

The lawsuit highlights the ongoing debate over jurisdiction and gaming laws in Alaska. The State of Alaska is seeking to reaffirm its primary jurisdiction over Alaska Native Allotments.

The Eklutna Gaming Lawsuit raises important questions about jurisdiction and land rights. The outcome of this lawsuit will have significant implications for the Native Village of Eklutna and the broader community.

News story originally published by Alaska’s News Source.