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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Eye On Boise

Idaho sues CdA Tribe in federal court over casino poker games

The state of Idaho has sued the Coeur d’Alene Tribe in U.S. District Court to block the tribe’s launch of poker games today at the Coeur d’Alene Casino. Idaho Gov. Butch Otter and Attorney General Wasden filed the lawsuit, saying Idaho bans poker and the tribe’s move would violate its gaming compact with the state.

“Article III Section 20 of the Idaho Constitution is clear, and it’s my duty to enforce and defend the Constitution and the laws of Idaho,” Otter said. “Despite discussions with tribal leaders and our best efforts at avoiding this situation, we have no choice but to act. I will continue working with the Attorney General to uphold our laws and resolve this issue.” You can read my full story here at spokesman.com.



Betsy Z. Russell
Betsy Z. Russell joined The Spokesman-Review in 1991. She currently is a reporter in the Boise Bureau covering Idaho state government and politics, and other news from Idaho's state capital.

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