National Indian Gaming Commission

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 1, 2026 – The National Indian Gaming Commission welcomes William “Billy” Kirkland as the newest NIGC associate commissioner, appointed to a three-year term on Friday May 29th, 2026. Additionally, he continues to serve as the assistant secretary for Indian Affairs at the Department of the Interior.

Kirkland brings extensive experience in public service and federal policy to the commission. In his new role, he will support NIGC’s mission to regulate and uphold the integrity of Indian gaming in partnership with tribal governments. An enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, Kirkland, has provided strategic, results-driven support to Fortune 500 companies, political campaigns, and advocacy efforts across the country.

“The Trump administration supports tribal sovereignty and economic development. Gaming is an important contributor to the economic success of many tribes,” said Kirkland. “I look forward to working alongside my fellow commissioners and NIGC staff to support a strong regulatory framework that upholds the integrity and success of Indian gaming.”

NIGC Associate Commissioner Sharon Avery welcomed the appointment. “We are pleased to have Mr. Kirkland join the commission,” said Avery. “His background and commitment to public service will strengthen the agency’s work and strengthen our ongoing support to tribal gaming regulators.”
The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act established the National Indian Gaming Commission with three fulltime members, each serving three-year terms. The president appoints the commission chair with the advice and consent of the Senate, and the Secretary of the Interior appoints both associate members.
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Media Contact: Shawn Pensoneau (202) 538-5156 [email protected]

Join us in welcoming Jazmin Baez to NIGC as a Training Specialist Intern.
Jazmin joins a collaborative team focused on learning, engagement, and supporting meaningful training opportunities across Indian Country. We’re excited to have her energy and contributions as part of the journey ahead.

Almost Here → Join NIGC experts June 9–10, 2026, in Rapid City, South Dakota, for a two-day Back to Basics workshop designed to strengthen core knowledge in Tribal gaming regulation.

Explore course descriptions and secure your spot on the NIGC website: https://www.nigc.gov/event/nigc-back-to-basics-in-person-event/

Explore the newest NIGC toolkit designed to support understanding of 25 CFR 543.13.

Join NIGC for the June NTTM and gain insight into the intent and testing behind Complimentary Services and Items standards. This session will highlight common findings identified through Agreed Upon Procedure (AUP) reports and explore how stronger understanding can help Tribes build more effective controls.

Thursday, June 4, 2026 | 2:00 p.m. EDT

Reserve your seat today: https://www.nigc.gov/event/june-nttm-intent-and-testing-complimentary-services-and-items-toolkit/

Join us in welcoming Tamara Blakeley to NIGC as an Auditor.
Tamara joins a team dedicated to accountability, collaboration, and supporting the integrity of tribal gaming operations. We’re excited to have her expertise and perspective as part of the work ahead.

NIGC was honored to attend the 2026 Women’s Summit, hosted by the Tribal Gaming Protection Network (TGPN) in partnership with the National Native American Human Resources Association (NNAHRA).

Thank you to the hosting partners and all attendees for the meaningful conversations, shared perspectives, and commitment to learning and professional growth. Opportunities to connect, collaborate, and learn together help strengthen relationships across Tribal gaming and support continued growth throughout Indian Country.

Join us in welcoming Amy Lopez to NIGC as a Compliance Officer serving the Sacramento Region.
Amy joins a dedicated team focused on collaboration, integrity, and meaningful service in support of tribal gaming regulation. We’re excited for the experience and perspective she brings to the role.

BIG NEWS! Registration Is Open

Registration is officially open for in-person attendance at the NIGC National Training Conference 2026.

Join Tribal gaming regulators and industry professionals July 7–8, 2026, at Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, for two days of practical training, collaboration, and meaningful conversations shaping tribal gaming regulation.

Registration and more details available here: https://www.nigc.gov/event/2026-nigc-national-training-conference-in-person-registration/

Happening this Thursday
May NTTM: 25 CFR 543.21 Minimum Internal Control Standards for Surveillance
May 7, 2026 | 2:00 p.m. EDT
Secure your spot: https://www.nigc.gov/event/may-nttm-543-21-minimum-internal-control-standards-for-surveillance/