California Files Lawsuit Against Interior Department Over Koi Nation Casino
The State of California and Governor Gavin Newsom have launched a federal lawsuit against the U.S. Department of the Interior, providing a significant boost to opponents of the Koi Nation’s casino-resort project in Windsor. The lawsuit contests the agency’s agreement to trust land for the gaming facility.
In its request for an injunction, Newsom’s office claims the Interior Department has bypassed necessary safeguards by utilizing a statutory exception that is “unsupported by the record, dismissive of state sovereignty, and contrary to federal law.” This accusation underscores the state’s concern regarding the legality of the decision-making process.
This legal action builds on a previous lawsuit filed by the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria on February 14. Additionally, three other Sonoma County tribes—Lytton Rancheria, Dry Creek Rancheria, and Cloverdale Rancheria—had already filed a separate complaint on February 24 to halt the development.
Nina Coté, representing grassroots organization Our Community Matters, has also filed a declaration in support of the Graton Rancheria case. She highlights that, according to county zoning regulations, the Koi casino is not permitted in its proposed location. If the land were taken into federal trust, however, such local restrictions would be irrelevant.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta criticizes the Interior Department for not following the required two-part determination process, which mandates consultation with relevant officials to ensure a casino’s impact on the surrounding community is not detrimental. Bonta asserts that without the governor’s concurrence, the land should not be eligible for gaming activities.
Project opponents are looking to the current presidential administration for a potential change in stance. Following the transition from Donald Trump to Joe Biden, the new Interior Secretary, Doug Burgum, is being urged to reassess prior approvals for similar projects, particularly after his department recently informed another tribe about reevaluating a casino proposal.
The Koi Nation has refrained from commenting on the recent lawsuit, which outlines plans for a 400-room hotel, a large gambling floor, and numerous gaming options on the 68-acre site. In contrast, the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria quickly voiced their support for the state’s lawsuit, emphasizing the need for proper consultation and adherence to both federal gaming and environmental laws.
