With any type of gambling establishments, there is often litigation and disputes. The Indian Gaming industry is no exception. Many private gaming companies are opposed to Indian gaming as it is said to interfere with their daily operations. This is mostly the case in large casino states like Nevada and New Jersey (specifically Las Vegas and Atlantic City).
Publicly Traded Company Support
On the other hand, public gaming companies have changed their views over the years. For instance, Harrah’s once withdrew from the Nevada Resort Association due to the association’s rejection of Indian gaming. Public gaming companies now see the financial opportunities associated with the industry. Typically, the executives of these companies see Indian gaming as an opportunity to open casinos in states that are opposed to gambling.
However, the relationship between tribal leaders and executive management is not always amicable. For example, Gaming World International was released from their contact with a tribe in Minnesota for gross mismanagement and misappropriation of tribal funds. Gaming World denies this claim stating they are in between tribal problems. The former chairman of Gaming World was arrested on embezzlement charges.
Non-Indian Gaming Issues
click here to see most Popular Pages
There is also a current conflict between Indian and non-Indian gaming companies. In New Jersey a tribe is attempting to open a casino near Atlantic City but is under scrutiny for doing so. Another controversy is the attempt of the Coeur D’Alene Indian tribe to nationalize the lottery. Unfortunately the tribe cannot obtain an 800 number because of threats of criminal action by the opposing states.
Despite these conflicts, there is little competition between Indian and Nevada casinos. There are no Indian gaming properties in the same geographic location as the major casinos so this is not an issue.
Issues Within the Indian Gaming Industry
Within the Indian gaming industry, there are conflicts developing as well. Due to the number of tribes attempting to open new properties, other tribes are against them due to competition and encroachment of existing Indian gaming operations in nearby areas. This is becoming a large problem in states like California, Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Indian gaming has come a long way over the past 40 years. The industry has developed into a profitable gambling channel. However, whenever there is money involved, conflicts will arise. Hopefully in the future, standardized regulations will be passed to settle these issues currently afflicting the Indian gaming industry.
