North Fork Mono Casino opens amid legal challenge

The North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians has opened the $750 million North Fork Mono Casino and Resort in Madera County, California. Operated by a subsidiary of Red Rock Resorts, the facility features over 2,400 slot machines, 40 table games, eight restaurants, and four bars. The project has already hired more than 1,000 employees and aims to provide long-term economic development for the tribe.

Despite the opening, the casino faces legal uncertainty. The Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians has filed a federal lawsuit seeking a temporary restraining order to prohibit gambling at the new property. A federal judge is currently weighing the challenge brought by the neighboring tribal gaming operator.