What is the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act?

The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) is a federal law that was passed in 1988 to regulate certain types of gaming on Indian reservations in Washington and other states. This act was passed to help promote tribal economic development and self-sufficiency and to protect tribal sovereignty. Through the IGRA, tribes can negotiate agreements with state governments that allow them to establish and operate gaming establishments on their reservations. The IGRA sets forth three classes of gaming: Class I, II, and III. Class I gaming includes activities that are traditionally associated with Native American culture, such as tribal ceremonies and dances. Class II gaming consists of bingo, pull-tabs, and other similar games that are operated and regulated by the tribe itself. Finally, Class III gaming includes all other forms of gaming such as slots and other casino-style games that are operated under the jurisdiction of the state. The IGRA also outlines the procedures for tribes to negotiate and sign gaming compacts with the state. A gaming compact is an agreement between the tribe and the state that sets out the rules and regulations for gaming on the tribal lands. These compacts define the gaming activities that are allowed and prohibited, the taxes imposed on the gaming activities, and other provisions designed to protect tribal sovereignty. In summary, the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act is a federal law that was passed to regulate gaming on Indian reservations in Washington and other states. It sets forth three classes of gaming and outlines the procedures for tribes to negotiate and sign gaming compacts with the state. These compacts are designed to protect tribal sovereignty while promoting tribal economic development and self-sufficiency.

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