Saipan Lawmaker Urges Revocation of IPI Casino License Amid Compliance Issues

The gaming community in the Northern Mariana Islands faces a significant development.

Representative Edwin K. Propst calls for a decisive action by the House of Representatives to potentially revoke Imperial Pacific International’s (IPI) casino license, amid ongoing compliance issues.

This call reflects concerns over IPI’s commitments to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and the Commonwealth Casino Commission (CCC).

Stay informed as this situation unfolds, impacting the future of casino operations and regulatory compliance in Saipan.

Northern Mariana Islands’ lawmaker, Representative Edwin K. Propst (D-Saipan), is spearheading a concerted effort in the House of Representatives to possibly revoke the casino license of Imperial Pacific International (IPI). This drastic measure is being considered unless IPI manages to secure necessary funds.

Propst voiced his skepticism regarding IPI’s current financial proposals. These include a commitment to pay US$5 million annually to the CNMI government and an additional $1 million each year to the CCC. However, doubts linger over IPI’s ability to fulfill these promises.

The issue with IPI’s casino license dates back to April 2021, when the CCC imposed a suspension. This decision was a direct consequence of IPI’s failure to adhere to multiple directives from the commission across five distinct enforcement actions. Propst, who also holds the position of House floor leader, plans to collaborate with House Gaming Committee Chair Ralph N. Yumul (Ind-Saipan) to work closely with the CCC in finding a viable solution to this predicament.

A key aspect of Propst’s approach involves an independent evaluation of the IPI casino and resort site. He advocates for a thorough inspection by independent engineers and architects to determine whether it is feasible to continue construction on the project, a move that could influence the future of IPI’s operations in the region significantly.