U.S. gaming industry pays tribute to late IGA Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr. at G2E in Las Vegas
The US tribal gaming sector recognized the policy legacy of Ernest L. “Ernie” Stevens Jr., who led the Indian Gaming Association (IGA) through two decades of legislative and regulatory efforts that helped drive tribal gaming revenue from $11 billion in 2000 to $49.4 billion in 2024.
The memorial gathering, hosted by the American Gaming Association (AGA) in partnership with IGA, was held during the opening day of the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas.
Tribal leaders, commercial gaming executives, and policymakers attended the event to honor Stevens, who died on September 26, 2025.
Industry tribute at G2E
The program, titled “Remembering a Visionary: The Enduring Legacy of Ernie Stevens, Jr.”, featured remarks from colleagues who worked alongside Stevens throughout his tenure. Speakers referenced his advocacy in Washington, DC, on matters related to tribal government gaming rights, regulatory policy and economic self-determination for Native nations.
Bill Miller, President and CEO of AGA, said Stevens’ work linked gaming operations to government service programs across Native communities. "Ernie Stevens, Jr. was a proud citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin and a fierce advocate for Indian Country. He saw gaming as a driver of economic prosperity, a source of opportunity for tribal citizens, and a way to strengthen tribal communities," Miller said.
Miller added, "During his 24 years of leadership, the tribal gaming industry experienced significant growth, reaching record levels in 2024. But the real impact of tribal gaming goes far beyond dollars and cents. It can be seen in the hospitals and health systems that were built, the schools that opened, and the local businesses that started in tribal nations across America."
Policy leadership and sovereignty defense
Stevens served as IGA chairman for more than two decades and was widely known for lobbying on tribal sovereignty and protecting tribal jurisdiction over gaming operations. His tenure coincided with continued federal regulatory discussions involving tribal-state compacts and economic reliance on gaming revenues to support tribal government programs.
Jason Giles, Executive Director of the IGA, described Stevens’ involvement across tribal policy forums. "Ernie was more than a leader, he was family to all of us. He carried the weight of Indian Country on his shoulders with grace and humility. His vision for tribal gaming went beyond economics; it was rooted in empowerment, cultural pride, and the belief that our sovereignty is sacred," Giles said.
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