Maverick Gaming has appealed the dismissal of its lawsuit challenging the tribal monopoly on sports betting in Washington state, where it is based, Yogonet reported July 10. A federal judge dismissed the lawsuit in February of this year.
The appeal was filed with the U.S. Court of Appeals, with Maverick’s attorney Theodore B. Olsen, writing in the opening brief: “We respectfully disagree with the district court’s decision to dismiss the case. We have appealed this ruling to the Ninth Circuit and intend to vigorously litigate the case.”
The gaming company contends that the state is misapplying the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) by granting the tribes a monopoly on sports betting. Maverick has also challenged the tribal state gaming compacts that authorized sports betting.
In answer to Maverick’s appeal Rebecca George, executive director of the Washington Indian Gaming Association, said, “Maverick’s lawsuit is a direct attack on the carefully negotiated Tribal-State Gaming Compacts authorized by the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which over the last three decades has been a pathway for tribes to regain their self-reliance.”
Maverick Gaming CEO Eric Persson, who himself is a member of the Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe, remains committed to offering sports betting at his commercial casinos.
He said in a statement: “I know that our perspective on sports betting is at odds with those who prefer a monopoly for Tribal casinos, but I respect their right to advocate for their members.”
Persson continued, “Maverick Gaming will one day offer sports betting at its properties in our state, either following a ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States or an inclusive policy discussion by the state legislature that is founded in facts.”
The tribes were granted the monopoly in March 2020 by legislative action. Commercial card rooms are not given the same privilege.
The defendants include Washington Governor Jay Inslee and Interior Department Secretary Deb Haaland.
