The Indian Gaming Association announced that Vice Chairman David Z. Bean has assumed the role of Chairman for the remainder of the term left by the late Ernie Stevens, Jr.

Ernie Stevens, Jr., passed away suddenly on September 26, 2025. Officials expressed confidence in the organization’s direction as Bean steps into the chairmanship, citing shared goals of sovereignty protection and responsible gaming governance.

Bean’s appointment follows IGA’s bylaws, which state that the Vice Chairman assumes the Chair’s duties for the unexpired term in case of vacancy.

Stevens led the association for more than two decades, during which tribal gaming became a major economic driver in Indian Country.

“It has only been a short period since we laid our former Chairman and my friend, Ernie Stevens, Jr., to rest,” said Chairman David Bean. “The outpouring of support and sympathy from Indian Country has truly touched his family and all of us who worked daily with him. Ernie always reminded us that ‘there is more work to do, let’s get up tomorrow and get at it.’ 

“As the new Chairman of IGA, I intend to continue on the path that Ernie laid down for over twenty years, carrying forward his dedication to protecting tribal sovereignty and advancing the interests of all tribal nations.”

Experience and leadership background

Bean, a longtime leader from the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, has served in multiple roles within IGA, including Northwest regional representative and Vice Chairman. His elevation to the chairmanship places him at the head of an organization representing tribal gaming interests across the United States.

Under Bean’s direction, IGA will continue to address policy issues that affect tribal governments. These include illegal online gaming operations, federal program funding, and tribal consultation across federal agencies.

Bean also identified additional priorities such as the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s (CFTC) handling of sports betting futures contracts and the protection of Indian health care funding under current federal budget conditions.

IGA continues to work with other tribal and regional organizations through the Coalition for Tribal Sovereignty (CTS), which includes the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the United South and Eastern Tribes (USET).

“As Chairman, I am hitting the ground running,” Bean said. “Our mission remains clear: to protect tribal sovereignty, honor our treaty rights, and ensure that tribal voices are heard in every policy conversation that affects our people and our governments.”

Jason Giles, IGA Executive Director, said the leadership transition would ensure stability within the organization: “Chairman Bean has been a steady and respected voice in Indian Country for many years. He embodies the same values of unity, humility, and persistence that defined Chairman Stevens’ leadership. 

“Under his guidance, IGA will continue to build on Ernie’s legacy – protecting tribal sovereignty, promoting responsible gaming policy, and ensuring that tribal governments remain strong partners in the national dialogue on economic development.”

The Indian Gaming Association will hold elections for Vice Chairman and Treasurer positions during its Annual Tradeshow and Convention in March 2026.