Doug Burgum’s Stance on Online Tribal Gaming Raises Concerns for Future Expansion
President-Elect Donald Trump’s nomination of North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum as Secretary of the Interior is stirring concerns in the tribal gaming community. While Burgum’s confirmation is still pending, his past opposition to the expansion of online gaming for Native American tribes could signal a shift in policy that could significantly affect the future of tribal gaming in the U.S.
The Role of the Secretary of the Interior in Tribal Gaming
The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) holds considerable authority over tribal gaming activities, which are governed by the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). This includes oversight of both brick-and-mortar casinos and online gaming operations for tribes. The DOI plays a crucial role in approving gaming compacts between tribes and states, as well as setting regulations for gaming operations on tribal lands. With Burgum potentially at the helm, his views on these matters are now under the microscope.
Burgum’s History on Online Tribal Gaming
During his tenure as governor of North Dakota, Doug Burgum voiced skepticism about online gaming expansion, particularly regarding the “hub-and-spoke” model used by some tribes to offer internet-based gambling. Under this model, tribes partner with a central hub entity that facilitates online gambling across multiple jurisdictions. While it’s become a popular route for tribes seeking to tap into the online gambling market, Burgum raised concerns about the legality and potential federal oversight issues related to the practice.
His objections to this model could signal a reversal of policies that have allowed tribes to expand their gaming operations beyond physical casinos. Given the DOI’s pivotal role in tribal gaming regulation, Burgum’s appointment could lead to a more restrictive approach to online gaming, leaving tribes with fewer opportunities to expand their revenue streams.
Potential Impact on Tribal Economies
The possibility of stricter regulations on online gaming is a significant concern for tribes, many of which rely on gaming revenues to support vital community programs and services. Gaming has become a primary source of income for numerous tribal governments, and online gambling provides an additional avenue for economic growth, especially in remote areas where traditional casino facilities may not be viable.
If Burgum takes a stance against online gaming expansion, it could hurt tribal economies by limiting access to a growing market. Many tribes have already been eyeing the expanding U.S. sports betting industry and online casinos as potential avenues for revenue diversification, but any shift in policy could delay or derail those plans.
Will Burgum’s Appointment Signal a Broader Shift?
Burgum’s nomination as Secretary of the Interior has broader implications for federal tribal policy, not just gaming regulation. His appointment comes at a time when tribal gaming interests are seeking greater autonomy and a more favorable regulatory environment. However, his past record suggests that he may favor a more cautious, regulated approach to gaming expansion.
Tribal advocates are closely monitoring the situation, with some expressing concerns that a stricter stance on gaming could undermine decades of progress in the tribal gaming industry. While the current administration has supported the growth of gaming, particularly through the expansion of sports betting, Burgum’s potential influence over the DOI could alter that trajectory.
The confirmation of Burgum, if it goes through, will likely spark debates over the future of tribal gaming, as well as the broader policy framework governing Native American rights and sovereignty. Whether or not tribal gaming interests can maintain their momentum in the face of potential regulatory hurdles will depend largely on the direction the DOI takes under Burgum’s leadership.
