There has been much discussion as of late in regard to Wisconsin's Stockbridge-Munsee Community Band of Mohican Indians and its proposed casino in the Catskills of New York State. Local racino operators say the casino will have a detrimental affect on the state's racing

industry.

Many people are asking why can Indians from Wisconsin operate a casino in New York State?

An article on milwaukeenewsbuzz.com explains that the band of Indians is located on a reservation east of Wausau, on land it received in 1856 through land treaties.

According to the report, the tribe traces its history to New York and claims it had land taken illegally in the 19th Century. In November, 2010, the tribe settled a claim with the state seeking 24,000 acres in the centre of the state. In the settlement, the Indians accepted a deal which awarded them a mere 333 acres in Sullivan County. The land promised in the deal -- which was inked by now-former governor David Paterson in the twilight of his final term -- is a north of New York City and came pre-approved for the new casino.

(With files from milwaukeenewsbuzz.com)

Related Stories

• New York State Racino Pact Speaks Out Against Proposed Indian Casino
• NY Governor Paterson’s Final Word
• Upset Over Proposed Indian Casino