Lawsuit Challenges New Casino Law

Massachusetts' new casino gambling law is already drawing a lawsuit.

The firm KG Urban Enterprises says in a lawsuit filed in federal court Tuesday that the law violates the equal protection clause of the U.S. Constitution because it gives federally recognized Indian tribes preference in seeking a casino license in southeastern Massachusetts.

At least two tribes, including the Mashpee Wampanoag, have expressed interest in opening a casino in New Bedford.

State lawmakers have said the provision in the bill, signed into law on Tuesday, is meant to recognize the tribes' federal right to open a casino.

Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal Chairman Cedric Cromwell said the law treats the tribe as a sovereign political entity and is constitutional.

The new law authorizes an as-yet-unnamed gambling commission to award up to three casino licenses.