Indian Gaming Association sets legislative agenda in Board of Directors meeting

The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) officially opened the Indian Gaming Tradeshow and Convention week with a Board of Directors meeting held at the Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego.

The annual tradeshow runs from March 31 to April 3 at the San Diego Convention Center and draws widespread participation from tribal leaders and gaming industry stakeholders.

Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr. called the meeting to order and welcomed board members with a message of unity and purpose. “United, we amplify our tribal leadership alongside our Indian gaming industry experts and professionals to celebrate the strength and progress of our Indian gaming industry,” he said.

“In the face of a challenging political landscape, we steadfastly stand together. We are ready to address these obstacles and work collaboratively with this Administration on shared objectives. Our mission is clear: to uplift Indian Country, ensure the protection of tribal sovereignty, and respect our tribal communities in all our endeavors.”

Stevens also provided updates from his recent membership address and highlighted key themes for this year’s convention. “This year’s gathering not only underscores our unwavering commitment to advancing Indian gaming but also reinforces our unity as we confront both the challenges and opportunities present in the gaming landscape,” he noted.

IGA Executive Director Jason Giles briefed the board on ongoing legislative developments in Congress that affect tribal casino operations and regulation. He also gave a financial update on the association’s performance and construction efforts at its headquarters. The board reviewed the 2024 Audit Report presented by Wipfli LLP/Joseph Eve & Associates.

Further reports included an update from Kevin Leecy, Director of Membership and Development, on the 2024 membership growth strategy and outreach efforts to tribal communities nationwide. The Board unanimously adopted four policy resolutions aimed at reinforcing the Association’s legislative objectives.

These included urging Congress to support tax equity for tribal governments, a resolution asking the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to prohibit the trading of sports contracts, and support for the Quinault Nation and Thlopthlocco Tribal Town in legal efforts related to tribal gaming disputes with Valve Corporation.