The executives also argue that the case should be dismissed based on equity and good conscience, as the potential relief could block the Mille Lacs Band from operating Class III gaming under its compact with Minnesota. They claim that the tribe, which relies on gaming revenue for its government and employment, should not be deprived of its rights through the lawsuit.
Oral arguments on the motion to dismiss are scheduled for January 28, with the case expected to have significant implications for tribal-state gaming compacts.
Running Aces is represented by Surya Saxena, Chad A. Blumenfield, Hamish P.M. Hume, David M. Lehn, William J. Harvey, and Jesse Panuccio, while the tribal executives are represented by Allison J. Mitchell, Casey L. Matthiesen, John W. Ursu, and Joshua Todd Peterson.
The case is North Metro Harness Initiative LLC d/b/a Running Aces v. Beattie et al., case number 0:24-cv-01369, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota.
