National Indian Gaming Association hosts big meeting in Las Vegas

Monday, March 12, 2018  

The National Indian Gaming Association is getting ready for its annual tradeshow and convention.

Tribal leaders, casino executives, gaming regulators and gaming firms have been flocking to the event for more than 30 years. They will be headed to Las Vegas, Nevada, next month for the first time in NIGA's history.

"We are so thrilled to be able to showcase the innovation and unique products of so many of the great suppliers for our industry at this year's tradeshow," NIGA Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr., said in a press release on Monday. "Each year we strive to provide an immersive experience for our members and the gaming community to come together and celebrate the industry while driving the business of gaming forward. This year's show will provide unprecedented opportunity to source new products and services."

In addition to learning about new products and technology, tribes will use the event to discuss big issues like the Tribal Labor Sovereignty Act, land-into-trust, the 2018 Farm Bill, internet gaming, marijuana and sports betting. NIGA has not officially developed a stand on the latter but has taken a strong interest as states and the nation's highest court press forward in ways that could impact Indian Country.

And, for the third year in a row, attendees can participate in a series of sessions focused on women in gaming. Topics include protecting women from violence and helping women advance in the industry.

Victor Rocha, a citizen of the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians and the founder of the popular Pechanga.net news site, is serving as the chair of the conference. He's been working with NIGA since 2016.

“This year’s program was shaped by the issues of the day and focuses on the business of gaming,” Rocha said. “We want conferees to attend the sessions and then be prepared to head to the show floor to see the latest technology and products and know what they need to drive success.”

The NIGA convention takes place April 17-20 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.