What is the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act?
The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) is a federal law passed by the United States Congress in 1988. It was designed to provide a regulatory structure for the gaming activities of Native American tribes in Oklahoma and throughout the country. The Act establishes three classes of gaming: Class I, Class II, and Class III. Class I gaming includes social games for minimal prizes that are traditionally played among members of a tribe. This type of gaming is not subject to regulation under the Act. Class II gaming includes bingo, lotto, and other games similar to bingo that are played with cards, machines, and other devices. This type of gaming is subject to regulation under the Act. Class III gaming includes gaming activities like slot machines, blackjack, and craps that are typically regulated by state governments. Native American tribes in Oklahoma and other states are allowed to conduct Class III gaming activities if they are approved by the state and the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC). The IGRA is an important law that seeks to protect the rights of Native American tribes, while also regulating gaming activities on tribal lands to ensure fair and legal gaming for all. It ensures that tribes in Oklahoma and other states are able to create and operate successful casinos that can help generate income for their communities.
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