Judge Blocks Scotts Valley Casino Bid: What's Next for Vallejo?

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-10-02

A federal judge just delivered a major setback to the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians in their long-running effort to open a casino in Vallejo, California. The tribe had asked for a preliminary injunction that would have revived their chances while their lawsuit against the U.S. Department of the Interior plays out. But Judge Trevor N. McFadden of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia wasn't convinced. He ruled that the tribe didn't meet the requirements for preliminary relief, leaving Interior's July decision firmly in place. ### What Exactly Happened? Let's break it down. The Scotts Valley Band wanted to build a casino on a 128-acre property in Vallejo. But the Interior Department said no in July, effectively blocking the project. The tribe sued, arguing that the decision was flawed. They then asked for a preliminary injunction—a legal tool that would pause the denial while the case moves forward. Judge McFadden denied that request, saying the tribe failed to show they'd suffer irreparable harm without it. ### Why This Matters for Tribal Gaming This isn't just about one tribe. It's about how the federal government handles land-into-trust applications for gaming. The Interior Department's July decision was based on a legal interpretation that could affect dozens of other tribes. So when a judge upholds that decision, even temporarily, it sends ripples through Indian Country. For the Scotts Valley Band, the fight isn't over. They can still argue their case in court. But without an injunction, the casino remains off the table for now. And that means the tribe's economic development plans are on hold indefinitely. ### What's Next? The tribe has a few options. They could appeal the injunction denial, though that's an uphill battle. They could also push for a legislative fix, but that's a long shot in a divided Congress. Or they could go back to the drawing board and propose a different project. Meanwhile, the Interior Department's decision stands as a precedent. Other tribes eyeing similar projects will be watching closely. If the courts ultimately side with Interior, it could make it harder for tribes to open casinos on newly acquired land. ### The Bottom Line Judge McFadden's ruling is a clear win for the federal government and a tough break for the Scotts Valley Band. But the legal battle is far from over. The tribe's lawsuit will continue, and the outcome could shape the future of tribal gaming in California and beyond. We'll keep you posted as this story develops. In the meantime, if you're following tribal gaming news, this is one to watch.