The US Department of the Interior (DOI) has authorized Oregon’s first off-reservation casino for the Coquille Indian Tribe, whose reservation is in North Bend, nearly 170 miles from the proposed casino site in Medford.
This decision, formalized through a Record of Decision (ROD), has ignited strong opposition from several Tribal nations, including the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, the Karuk Tribe, and the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation.
The Coquille Tribe’s application has been under review by the Bureau of Indian Affairs for over ten years. More than 60 Tribal nations have consistently opposed the project, arguing it violates federal laws and undermines Tribal sovereignty.
Tribal Leaders Speak Out
Leaders from opposing Tribes argue that the casino would be built on land outside the Coquille’s ancestral territory, causing cultural, environmental, and economic harm to other Indigenous communities. They claim the decision disregards historical land ties and sets in motion a dangerous precedent.
- Cow Creek Chair Carla Keene criticized the timing and legitimacy of the decision.
- Karuk Chairman Russell Attebery accused the DOI of violating multiple federal acts and harming his Tribe’s ability to serve its members.
- Tolowa Dee-ni’ Chair Jeri Lynn Thompson warned of disruptions to vital Tribal programs, such as elder care and education.
Legal Action and Political Pushback
The three Tribes filed for a Temporary Restraining Order in federal court, citing violations of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, the Indian Reorganization Act, and other statutes. They also raised concerns about the DOI’s failure to consider alternative sites and broader impacts.
Senator Ron Wyden calling the approval a reckless move that threatens Oregon’s balanced approach to Tribal gaming. He pledged to challenge the ruling through legislative means, including the Congressional Review Act.
Controversial Process
Tribal leaders and officials had previously requested an extension of the comment period for the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS), arguing that the process was rushed during the holiday season. The DOI declined to extend the timeline, prompting further frustration.
South Medford Casino Plans
The Coquille Indian Tribe, if successful, will open a new casino in South Medford.
The site will be a class II gaming facility and will feature over 600 slot options. The Coquille tribe has a compact with the state to offer class III gaming, but has not announced plans to include any table games at its new casino.
For many residents, online Oregon casinos offered by international brands outside the state are the most convenient gambling option. While no federal or state gambling laws prevent players from accessing offshore sites, it is important to note that the state does not license online casino services. Reputable online casinos are all overseen by trusted gaming regulators; however, since their physical location is outside the US, the state of Oregon can’t offer any additional player protections.