Sharp Image Gaming, Inc. v. Shingle Springs Band Indians
Opinion
lead Opinion
Murray, J.
*400 In this case, we reverse a judgment related to contractual claims that are preempted by the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA).
Defendant Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians (the Tribe) appeals from a judgment after trial in favor of plaintiff Sharp Image Gaming, Inc. (Sharp Image), in plaintiff's breach of contract action stemming from a deal to develop a casino on the Tribe's land. On appeal, the Tribe argues: (1) the trial court lacked subject matter jurisdiction because Sharp Image's action in state court was preempted by IGRA; (2) the trial court erred in failing to defer to the National Indian Gaming Commission's (NIGC) determination that the disputed Equipment Lease Agreement (ELA) and a promissory note (the Note) were management contracts requiring the NIGC's approval; (3) Sharp Image's claims were barred by the Tribe's sovereign immunity; (4) the trial court erred in denying the Tribe's motion for summary judgment; (5) the jury's finding that the ELA was an enforceable contract was inconsistent with its finding that the ELA left essential terms for future determination; and (6) substantial evidence does not support the jury's verdict on the Note.