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Chief Questions Rhode Island Casinos' Legality

PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island – As reported by the Providence Journal: "The chief sachem of the Narragansett Indian tribe yesterday asked Attorney General Patrick Lynch to investigate whether the state's two existing gambling facilities pass constitutional muster.

"Matthew Thomas said he wants to know whether Lincoln Park and Newport Grand are considered state-operated 'lotteries,' the test that last week knocked a casino proposal developed by the tribe and Harrah's Entertainment off the November ballot.

"…Thomas contends that, based on the court's reasoning, the two existing gambling facilities may be 'operating illegally.' Governor Carcieri's spokesman, Jeff Neal, dismissed the suggestion, saying the court made it clear that the casino proposal was different.

"…[Jan Jones, Harrah's senior vice president for communication] maintained Harrah's was still committed to the Narragansetts and the West Warwick site, and was not looking at alternatives, such as Lincoln Park…"

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