Two First Nations are suing the Alberta government and its gaming commission in a court of law over what they call unauthorized entry into the online gaming sector. The Alberta government permits Play Alberta to conduct online gambling, which includes virtual slots and table games.
Play Alberta was launched last fall to offer online gaming options as the casinos remain closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, the Two Alberta First Nations want the court to determine whether the province entry into the online gaming sector is authorized.
Stoney Nakoda and Tsuut’ina First Nations in southern Alberta filed for a judicial review and argued that online site is unauthorized and impermissible. They further added that the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Commission couldn’t authorize or give a permit for online casinos.
Chief Roy Whitney of Tsuut’ina says that while the leading casino remains closed, the government will be taking its charity dollars by allowing online gambling. Alberta government expects to raise to $3.74 million in 2021.
