A U.S. District Court judge has upheld the federal authorization of the Chin’an Gaming Hall, a tribal casino established by the Native Village of Eklutna in Birchwood, Alaska. The ruling marks a significant win for the tribe, which had faced legal opposition from residents concerned about traffic, noise, and the tribe’s federal status.
Judge James L. Robart dismissed claims that Eklutna lacked federal recognition, citing a 1993 Interior Department listing and a 1994 Congressional affirmation that tribes can be recognized through legislative, administrative, or judicial means. His decision confirmed the tribe’s sovereign immunity and its right to operate the casino.
The Chin’an Gaming Hall, built on eight acres of Native land known as the Ondola allotment, received approval from both the National Indian Gaming Commission and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Its launch followed years of effort by Eklutna leaders to create economic opportunities for tribal members.
Tribal President Aaron Leggett praised the ruling as a reaffirmation of Alaska Native rights and expressed optimism about the casino’s role in strengthening community ties and supporting tribal growth.
Alaska Gambling Laws
The Alaska Department of Revenue’s Gaming Division oversees all legal gambling activities in the state. The department oversees licensing, compliance, and enforcement for charitable gaming and tribal casinos in the state. Commercial casinos are not permitted in the state, but there are five Class II tribal casinos.
Class II gaming is restricted to bingo and pull tabs in Alaska, so for many, the real casino experience is limited to online sources. Other Alaska online gambling options include sportsbooks, poker sites, and horse racing odds in addition to popular casino games.
When Will The Chin’an Gaming Hall Open Its Permanent Location?
The temporary Chin’an Gaming Hall, which opened in February 2025, offers 135 electronic bingo machines. The projected opening for the permanent location is scheduled for 2026, although a specific date has not been confirmed. However, the new facility is expected to feature 700 or more electronic gaming machines, two full-service restaurants, and 58,000 square feet of gaming space.
What Online Casino Games Are Available in Alaska?
Alaska residents have access to online casinos operating from offshore. While the state does not regulate online casinos, legally licensed offshore sites are controlled from their country of origin.
AK residents often play at online casinos due to the sheer number of table games and variations of popular slots. You can also find live dealer table games that are offered over a secure video and audio feed. The following games are just a few examples of those you will see when browsing the legal online casino sites we review.