Government officials from tribes gather amidst impending government closure and the emergence of unregulated online marketplaces
The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) is set to hold its Mid-Year Conference in Minnesota from Monday to Wednesday, with a focus on the challenges facing tribal gaming in the current climate. The theme of the conference, "Built to Endure", reflects the resilience of tribal communities in the face of adversity.
Brian Giles, the IGA's executive director, has expressed concerns about the potential impact of a federal government shutdown on tribal governments. Giles warns tribal leaders to prepare for a possible October and November shutdown, citing the significant suffering Indian Country experienced during the last shutdown. He highlights the lack of essential services, housing, healthcare, and education as key areas of concern.
The conference's first day will focus on Indian Country facing economic disruption. Tribal governments are contending with slashed funding for critical services and struggling with rising costs. If there is a decrease in the volume in sports books, tribes might have to consider partnering with someone to manage these issues.
The gaming industry is facing a "perfect storm of disruption" due to federal policy shifts, economic pressure, emerging gray markets, and the intensifying battle over sports betting. In the state of Minnesota, there is an ongoing discussion about the future of sports betting. Minnesota's state gaming compacts are being questioned due to the encroachment of out-of-state companies offering gaming online.
Rocha, a panelist at the conference, believes that sweepstakes companies will move to prediction markets in the future. A Wednesday session at the conference will examine sweepstakes gambling, offshore crypto casinos, and prediction markets as potential disruptors to tribal gaming markets.
Uncertainty affects consumer confidence, potentially leading to decreased spending that impacts tribal and commercial gaming enterprises. Tres York, vice president of government relations at the American Gaming Association, will be on a panel discussing these issues.
Rocha humorously notes that tribes have been dealing with various issues since the time of Christopher Columbus. However, he emphasises the need for national organizations to work on a better plan to address the potential impact of a government shutdown on Indian Country.
The conference is expected to take place under the Biden administration, with the United States government led by President Joe Biden's administration most likely in office in 2025. No evidence suggests a different government is expected to be in power at that time. The political environment in 2025 remains under the Biden administration after the 2024 presidential election cycle.
Schools, tribal police departments, and road maintenance were affected during the last government shutdown, according to Giles. He suggests that schools, in particular, could face significant challenges if a shutdown occurs, impacting the education of thousands of children in Indian Country.
The Indian Gaming Association Mid-Year Conference aims to provide a platform for discussion and solutions to the challenges facing tribal gaming. With the theme of "Built to Endure", the conference aims to empower tribal communities to navigate the current climate and emerge stronger.
