US federal government accused of favouring MGM

Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods native tribes and casino operators accused the government of benefiting MGM.

US.- Foxwoods Resorts and Mohegan Sun casino operators have joined forces to set a common demand to further expand the gaming industry. As a joint venture, the tribes have urged authorities to grant new gaming licenses in order to install more casinos and be able to compete against MGM new venue.

According to the official report, the gaming companies operated by both local native tribes have also accused the federal government of “blocking their expansion efforts, a move that helped a new competitor to the area, MGM.” The tribes have filed suit, arguing the US Department of the Interior is illegally seeking to delay plans. Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal, of Connecticut, called the department “derelict in failing to give approval,” adding: “We asked for a meeting, but they were unresponsive. They never even responded.”

Authorities of East Windsor are evaluating a proposal that would allow the joint venture to build a US$300 million casino to compete with the upcoming MGM Springfield. The gaming project has been backed by the State’s General Assembly as it would help to maintain the tourism industry’s rates as well as increasing the local revenues by generating job positions and business opportunities. The General Assembly has also urged legislators to approve the measure soon.