Kunesh Navigates First Step of NIGC Confirmation Process
Patrice Kunesh, President Joe Biden’s nominee for the new head of the National Indian Gaming Commission, Sept. 18 went before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs as part of the confirmation process. The hearing went nearly 45 minutes and Kunesh fielded questions about tribal economic development, Indian gaming and self-determination. The committee did not vote, but opened a week-long public-comment period.
Kunesh would replace Sequoyah Simmermeyer, who resigned in February. Though the committee did not vote, it clearly supports Kunesh as a candidate.
In his introduction, committee Chairman Brian Schatz said Kunesh is a “proven leader who can and will achieve these goals.” He also said that the committee has received many letters from tribes in support of her nomination.
During the hearing, Kunesh said her key priorities are staffing, the “state of the regulations,” particularly as they relate to digital gambling, and public safety. In particular, she pointed to human trafficking as an important issue to tackle.
With regard to Indian gaming, Kunesh said that she would be “committed to understanding the dynamics and pressures and tensions on the” Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.
Kunesh is currently the commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans. She was previously an executive with the Native American Rights Fund, Pehin Haha Consulting and the Federal Bank of Minnesota. Kunesh, a descendant of the Standing Rock Lakota Tribe, would be tasked with leading an organization that oversees the $41.9-billion world of Indian gaming.
Study: Choctaws Contribute $1 Billion to MS in Econ. Impact
A recent study from Mississippi State University has calculated that the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, the only federally recognized tribe in the state, is contributing $980 million in economic impact based on 2022 expenditures. The tribe operates a number of businesses, from casinos to dining, retail and more.
“This study demonstrates the significant role our Tribe plays in the economic health of Mississippi. We are proud of our contributions and remain committed to fostering growth and opportunities for all,” Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben said in a statement.
San Manuel Tribe Donates $12.6 Million
California’s San Manuel Band of Mission Indians donated $12.6 million to 228 causes, Indian Gaming reported Sept. 17. The causes range from non-gaming tribes in Wisconsin and California to the Make-a-Wish Foundation (Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties) to homeless services. The tribe, located about an hour east of Los Angeles, has donated $400 million over time to causes in California and throughout Indian Country.
The tribe operates the Yaamava’ Resort and Casino.
In other news …
Florida’s Miccosukee Tribe granted a gaming license to Game Changing Technologies, a San Diego-based company that provides technology to the gaming industry. It holds 125 licenses with gaming venues across the U.S.
Arizona’s Casino del Sol was selected as the top casino for the ninth straight year by the Arizona Daily Star Reader’s Choice Awards. The hotel was also honored as the top resort this year.
