Published in cooperation between Valuewalk and San Jose Inside

The Koi Nation’s plans to build a $600 million casino in Sonoma County have ignited a fierce debate. The small tribe, which lacks land, claims it needs the casino to survive financially and that it’s permitted by federal laws for “restored lands.”

However, opponents like Governor Gavin Newsom and neighboring tribes argue that the casino is outside the tribe’s traditional territory and violates federal gaming laws. The final decision rests with the U.S. Interior Secretary.