BOWLER, WI – The Stockbridge-Munsee Community and other Wisconsin Native Nations are voluntarily shutting down gaming operations for two weeks.
The shutdown will begin at Midnight on Saturday, March 21, 2020.
Tribal leaders say the decision was made as a response to the current seriousness of the global pandemic from COVID-19.
The situation will be closely monitored, and additional changes may need to be made.
Tribal leaders say they are working on the logistics of shutting down operations that employ thousands of people statewide. They are looking at doing it in an orderly manner that complies with gaming regulations and implementing measures to safeguard employees and patrons.
In the process, the shutdown includes enhanced cleaning operations, the cancelation of group events and using social distancing between patrons at tables and machines. The process also includes modifying food operations.
Tribal leaders say they intend to follow Governor Evers directive to limit gatherings. At the same time, they are asking patrons and employees to stay home if they are ill.
“As our state faces a public health crisis, I am committed to standing with Wisconsin’s tribal nations and working with them to keep their communities and the public safe,” said Governor Evers.
“We recognize the importance of public health and are prepared to to do our part as a tribal nation and stand with other tribal nations to protect the well-being of the larger communities,” Tribal President Shannon Holsey said in response.
Comments