Indian Gaming Regulatory Act

The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), enacted in 1988, governs the regulation of gaming on Indian reservations in the United States. It was created to balance the interests of tribal sovereignty and federal gaming laws. The Act allows Native American tribes to conduct gaming activities, such as casinos, as a means of economic development. Tribes must negotiate compacts with state governments, ensuring a degree of oversight while respecting tribal self-determination. The IGRA aims to promote tribal economic development while also protecting the integrity of gaming, preventing cheating and ensuring fair operations.