The three-year term of National Indian Gaming Commission Vice Chairman Norm DesRosiers came to an end last week, cutting the last link to the commission controlled by Phil Hogen, who stepped down as chairman last October. Hogen's term was controversial in that he attempted to define the difference between Class II and Class III slot machines with a "bright line," an effort many tribes oppossed.

DesRosiers was more interested in other, more basic, details of regulation and oversight of gaming in Indian Country and leaves with a stellar reputation recognized by regulators at all levels of the gaming industry.

DesRosiers provided essential input on most major issues facing the Commission during his tenure. He was responsible for numerous initiatives carried out by the commission including the development and implementation of the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) requirements. He also served on the Minimum Internal Control Standards (MICS) Advisory Committee.

DesRosiers joined the NIGC with vast experience, including nine years of law enforcement and on-the-ground-experience in tribal gaming regulation beginning in 1993 when he worked for the Fort McDowell Tribal Gaming Commission. DesRosiers served as commissioner of the Viejas Tribal Gaming Commission
from 1998 until he joined the commission in 2007.

With DesRosiers' departure, the NIGC consists of Acting Chairman George T. Skibine and Vice-Chair Steffani A. Cochran.

Sources tell GGB News that Sheila Morogo, currenty executive director of the Arizona Indian Gaming Association and a member of the Gila River Indian Community, is being seriously considered to replace DesRosiers.

By Staff