First Texas Casino Resort gets Federal Approval

October 19, 2025

The federal government confirmed approval for the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe to build the first casino resort on reservation land in Polk County, Texas. The location is 82 miles north of Houston.

The new casino named Naskila Casino Resort will built in Leggett, TX and replace the existing Naskila Gaming in nearby Livingston. The groundbreaking for construction is expected before the end of this year.

Federal Approval
The federal approval was confirmed by both the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) and the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), which stated the casino site on US 59/I-69 North near Leggett in east Polk County is tribal reservation land and qualifies for an Indian gaming casino in compliance with the U.S. Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

Tribal Approval
After receiving federal confirmation of the casino approval, the Tribal Council hosted a General Membership Meeting on September 20, 2025 and proposed moving the existing Naskila Gaming casino in Livingston to the new location in Leggett when it opens. The relocation was approved by tribal members.

"We are grateful for the support of our membership and for the confirmation from federal agencies that allow us to proceed with the project on our reservation land in Leggett.

"This resort will create significant economic opportunities and providea premier entertainment destination in East Texas."

- Cecilia Flores, Tribal Council Chairwoman

New Naskila Casino Resort
Naskila Casino Resort will be the first-ever, full-scale casino resort in Texas. The building plans have been shared with local officials in Polk County. However, details about the features, timeline, investment, etc. have not been released to the public. The tribe says it will release that information later along with updates as they become available.