The Commonwealth Casino Commission (CCC) of the Northern Mariana Islands has reiterated its intention to enforce compliance with all local and federal regulations, noting that while it wants the gaming industry to thrive it will offer no special treatment to embattled casino operator Imperial Pacific International (CNMI), LLC.
In a statement issued to media on Tuesday, CCC Chairman Edward C. DeLeon Guerrero said the organization would “remain committed to ensuring all casino gaming operations in Saipan comply with both local and federally mandated regulations. The CCC’s operation includes monitoring of all gaming facilities, including 24/7 surveillance operations at our only casino operation.”
While Guerrero stated the CCC wanted what is best for CNMI’s casino gaming industry – including creating an environment where the gaming industry can thrive – he also made clear that this does not specifically refer to assisting any particular company or operator, nor offering any favorable terms to assist a particular company or operator over another.
His comments come after the Governor of the Northern Mariana Islands last week served IPI with notice to suspend or revoke its casino license if it doesn’t pay its annual US$15.5 million license fee.
IPI had previously requested abatement of the fee due to the financial impact of COVID-19 on its casino operations, which have been suspended since March, however the company also outlined its plan to “vigorously defend” its exclusive rights to run all gaming on Saipan.
The CCC confirmed that it has the power to suspend or revoke IPI’s license pending clear and convincing evidence presented during a hearing and a subsequent unanimous vote.
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