Tribal Gaming Leaders Back Nationwide Self-Exclusion Program

Tribal gaming leaders have voiced their for the newly introduced Tribal-Wide Self-Exclusion Program, a significant initiative aimed at fostering responsible gambling and improving community well-being. The program was founded by the Tribal Council for Responsible Gaming and is being developed in collaboration with safer gaming technology firm idPair. The company will provide its specialized self-exclusion software, ensuring compliance with local regulations while maintaining tribal sovereignty.

“This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to the health of our people and communities. By tribes coming together to offer a streamlined process for self-exclusion with a technology partner that shares our values, we help people in our communities who are looking to take a break or stop gambling do so for the amount of time they need,” said Ivory Kelly, CEO of the Tribal Council for Responsible Gaming.

Expansion Plans and Tribal Endorsement

The program will allow individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from all participating tribal casinos across sovereign nations and territories. It is set to debut in Wisconsin this month, with plans for gradual expansion into other states.

Ernie Stevens Jr., Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association of Washington, D.C., underscored the significance of the initiative, emphasizing its role in reinforcing tribal nations’ commitment to responsible gaming.

“Tribal nations have long been at the forefront of promoting responsible gaming practices, demonstrating leadership through our actions. This initiative not only underscores the commitment of tribal nations to player protection but also sets a precedent for others to follow. We encourage all tribal leaders and regulators to extend their consideration in ing this program, expanding its reach and reinforcing our collective dedication to responsible gaming,” Stevens stated.

The official introduction of the initiative will take place during the Indian Gaming Tradeshow and Convention in April at the Chairman’s Lounge, offering industry professionals a first look at the program’s structure and implementation strategy.

Advisory Board Announced

A five-member advisory board has been formed to oversee the implementation and direction of the Tribal-Wide Self-Exclusion Program. Alongside Ernie Stevens Jr., the board includes notable figures in the tribal gaming industry:

• Anika Howard – President and CEO of Wondr Nation
• Jamie Hummingbird – Chairman of the National Tribal Gaming Commissioners/Regulators
• Oscar Schuyler – Chairman of the Board of Regulators, Tribal Gaming Regulatory Authority, Alabama Coushatta Tribe of Texas
• Tamara Van Schyndel – Executive Director of the Paskenta Tribal Gaming Commission

The launch of this initiative coincides with Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM), a campaign led by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NG). This year’s PGAM theme, “Seeking Understanding,” highlights the need to recognize problem gambling as a serious health issue that affects individuals, families, and communities.

By offering a unified and accessible self-exclusion option across multiple tribal casinos, the program represents a significant step toward mitigating problem gambling and enhancing player protection

Source:

‘’Tribal gaming launching shared self-exclusion program’’, sbcamericas.com, March 05, 2025.