Gaming standards being finalized

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 2, 2002

The National Indian Gaming Commission is finalizing a set of gaming rules covering all aspects of tribal gaming.

Known as the minimum internal control standards, or MICS, the rules were first implemented in January 1999. They are now being updated to account for changes in gaming technology and experience gained from their use.

The latest set of rules were developed after a series of nationwide consultation meetings with tribal and gaming leaders were held last year. An advisory committee composed of tribal officials was instrumental in defining the standards.

The rules set minimum standards for various gaming operations, such as bingo and slot machines. They also define three "tiers" of play, based on the dollar value of a tribal operation.

Tier A is defined as an operation which makes than $1 million but not more than $5 million in gross gaming revenue. A Tier B gaming operation is one with gross revenues of more than $5 million but not more than $15 million. Tier C is an operation making more more than $15 million.

The NIGC is accepting comments on the standards until February 25. The commission expects to hold at least one more consultation meeting before then, according to a Federal Register notice published December 26, 2001.

Get the Federal Register Notice:
TXT | PDF

Relevant Links:
National Indian Gaming Commission - http://www.nigc.gov

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