National Indian Gaming Commission

Definition

The National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) is a federal agency established in 1988 that regulates and oversees Indian gaming activities in the United States. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that gaming operations on tribal lands comply with federal laws and tribal regulations, thus promoting integrity and fairness in the gaming industry. The NIGC works closely with tribal governments to support economic development through gaming, while also ensuring that revenue generated from these operations benefits the tribes and their communities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The NIGC was created by the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988 to provide oversight of Indian gaming and to ensure compliance with applicable laws.
2. The commission consists of three members appointed by the President of the United States, who serve a three-year term.
3. NIGC has the authority to issue regulations regarding Indian gaming, including standards for operations and financial reporting requirements.
4. The NIGC's primary mission is to protect the integrity of Indian gaming and ensure that revenues are utilized for the benefit of tribal communities.
5. Tribal-State Compacts are essential for establishing the parameters of gaming operations, including any revenue sharing agreements, which are reviewed by the NIGC for compliance with federal laws.

Review Questions

• How does the National Indian Gaming Commission ensure compliance with federal laws in tribal gaming operations?
  • The National Indian Gaming Commission ensures compliance by regulating Indian gaming activities according to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. The NIGC reviews tribal ordinances, approves gaming licenses, and conducts audits to ensure that operations are fair and adhere to established guidelines. This oversight helps maintain integrity within the industry and protects both tribal interests and players.
• Discuss the relationship between Tribal-State Compacts and the National Indian Gaming Commission in regulating tribal gaming activities.
  • Tribal-State Compacts play a significant role in defining the operational landscape of tribal gaming, as they outline the agreement between tribes and states regarding gaming activities. The National Indian Gaming Commission reviews these compacts to ensure they comply with federal laws, including revenue-sharing agreements. This cooperative relationship helps balance state interests with tribal sovereignty while fostering economic development through responsible gaming practices.
• Evaluate the impact of the National Indian Gaming Commission on economic development within Native American communities through its regulatory framework.
  • The National Indian Gaming Commission significantly impacts economic development within Native American communities by establishing a regulatory framework that promotes fair and responsible gaming practices. By overseeing compliance with federal laws and supporting tribal sovereignty, the NIGC helps ensure that revenues generated from gaming operations are effectively used for community services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. This not only strengthens tribal economies but also empowers tribes to invest in their futures while preserving their cultural identities.

Related terms

Indian Gaming Regulatory Act: A federal law enacted in 1988 that establishes the framework for regulating gaming on Indian reservations, allowing tribes to operate gaming facilities under certain conditions.

Tribal-State Compact: An agreement between a tribe and a state that outlines the terms under which the tribe may conduct gaming activities, often including revenue sharing and regulatory frameworks.

Gaming Revenue: The income generated from gaming activities, which is often used by tribes for essential services, infrastructure, and community development.