Maine Tribes Want Ruling Overturned

MAINE – As reported by the Portland Press Herald: "Two Maine Indian tribes and the group Casinos No! want a state court to take back a conditional racing license awarded this week to the owner of Bangor Historic Track.

"The Passamaquoddy and Penobscot tribes and the anti-casino group filed separate lawsuits Wednesday in Penobscot County Superior Court.

"Each party asked the court to overturn decisions Tuesday by the Maine Harness Racing Commission that awarded Penn National Gaming a conditional racing license.

"…James Kilbreth, an attorney with Verrill & Dana who represents Casinos No!, said the law isn't clear about whether Penn National can install slot machines with a conditional license, or if it must first prove to the commission its suitability to operate the track.

"…Eric Schippers, a spokesman for Penn National, said the tribes and Casinos No! went to court because the racing commission refused to let them participate in the licensing process.

"…The Passamaquoddy and Penobscot tribes now want to operate harness racing and slot machines at the city-owned track in Bangor. Casinos No! opposes slot machines at state racetracks…"