Patrice H. Kunesh Nominated to Chair National Indian Gaming Commission

Date: 2024-08-13 Author: Robert Beloved Categories: PEOPLE
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President Joe Biden has taken another step toward strengthening ties with tribes by nominating Patrice H. Kunesh to chair the National Indian Gaming Commission, the White House press office announced.

A Seasoned Tribal Gaming Expert

Patrice H. Kunesh brings extensive tribal, state, and federal experience to the role, replacing Acting Chair Sharon M. Avery.

Kunesh also serves as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Native American Affairs and Commissioner of the Administration for Children and Families at the Department of Health and Human Services. She has been instrumental in developing initiatives to support tribal communities.

One example of her work is the creation of the Indian Area Development Center at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, which highlights her commitment to supporting broad initiatives in the Indian ecosystem. Additionally, Kunesh has worked with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe and the Native American Rights Fund, making her a trusted voice among tribal leaders.

As Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission, Kunesh will ensure tribal gaming operations comply with federal laws, including auditing, monitoring, and investigating potential violations.

The Role of the National Indian Gaming Commission

The National Indian Gaming Commission is responsible for upholding and enforcing the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. The Commission actively works to ensure compliance and tribal sovereignty.

Significant cases the Commission has been involved in include the Bishop Paiute Tribe in 2015 and the Coeur d'Alene Tribe, which engaged in illegal gaming activities. But the commission has also faced setbacks in court, such as in United States v. Seminole Tribe of Florida, where the U.S. Supreme Court sided with the tribe.

The Seminoles, who operate the Hard Rock brand in Florida, ended up with a near-monopoly on online and land-based gambling in the state. The tribe continues to fight for exclusive online sports betting rights despite opposition from Magic City Casino and Bonita Springs Poker Club.

The appointment of Patrice H. Kunesh represents a continued effort by the Biden administration to strengthen relationships with tribes and support their gaming interests.
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