NIGC Extends Time for Tribal Leaders to Comment on Draft Gaming Ordinance Requirements and NIGC Regulations

Washington DC, May 16, 2007 — The National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) is extending the deadline for tribal leaders to submit comments on NIGC draft regulatory changes and draft licensing regulations by fifteen (15) days. A copy of the draft regulations was mailed to tribal leaders on March 26, 2007.  The deadline for comments has been extended to May 30, 2007.

These amendments and additions are in keeping with the NIGC’s goal of modernizing its regulations.  Examples of attempts to simplify and clarify the regulations include: updating the definition of net revenues to come into compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP); removing provisions allowing approval of ordinances and management contracts by the Secretary of the Interior; and reducing payment of fees to twice a year.   Additionally, the revised draft licensing regulations would establish standards for the issuance of licenses for tribal gaming facilities.

In accordance with the NIGC’s government-to-government consultation policy, the NIGC seeks comments from tribes on ways that the draft amendments might be improved. The new deadline for tribal comments is May 30, 2007.  If the Commission chooses to go forward with the amendments, as drafted or refined based on tribal input and further study, there will be opportunity for further comment.