Posted on: September 27, 2025, 12:47h.
Last updated on: September 27, 2025, 12:47h.
- Ernie Stevens Jr. passed away on Friday, aged 66
- Stevens had been at the helm of the Indian Gaming Association since 2000
The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) mourns the loss of its longstanding leader, Ernie Stevens Jr., who died unexpectedly at 66 years old.
Renowned as a key player in both tribal and the wider US gaming industry, Stevens led the IGA for over 20 years. A member of Wisconsin’s Oneida Nation, he became chair of the Indian Gaming Association in 2000. In April, he was honored with a 13th term in this pivotal role.
“Ernie Stevens Jr. transcended his role as chairman; he was a warrior, a diplomat, and a relentless advocate for all of Indian Country. His vision fostered connections among tribal nations, federal agencies, and Congress, ensuring that tribal gaming remained vital to tribal autonomy and economic development,” remarked Jason Giles, the IGA’s executive director.
“His legacy is unparalleled, and his influence will resonate for generations,” he added.
Stevens Led Remarkable Expansion
Established in 1985 with the mission of promoting tribal self-sufficiency through gaming, the IGA was instrumental in the advocacy of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). This act created a structured framework for tribal gaming comprising three classes: I, II, and III. After serving seven years on the Oneida Nation Council, Stevens was elected as the IGA chair in 2000.
Throughout his leadership, Stevens played a crucial role in enabling tribal nations to achieve economic independence by negotiating Class III gaming agreements with their respective states, allowing for advanced gaming options like Las Vegas-style slots and live dealer table games. As a result, tribal gaming revenues soared from $11 billion in 2000 to an impressive $43.9 billion in 2024.
Currently, 243 federally recognized tribes operate 532 tribal casinos throughout the United States.
“For over twenty years, Chairman Stevens united Tribal Nations, educated lawmakers, and safeguarded the rights of Tribal governments as enshrined in federal law,” stated the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI).
Prior to his role with the IGA, Stevens served as the NCAI’s first-ever vice president.
“Stevens consistently enlightened the media and Congress about the importance of tribal gaming for nation-building, serving as a pivotal resource for enhancing healthcare, education, housing, public safety, and cultural revival in Indian Country. His lifelong dedication has been recognized broadly, including his induction into the American Gaming Association’s Gaming Hall of Fame and multiple national accolades,” the NCAI further noted.
The Seneca Nation expressed to Casino.org that Stevens’ influence is “immeasurable.”
“His visionary leadership and fervent advocacy for the industry and diverse nations across the US, along with his tenacious defense of sovereignty and pursuit of economic opportunities for our people, have profoundly shaped the economic landscape of Indian Country in recent decades,” read the statement from the Seneca Nation.
“Ernie was a warrior, a leader, and a cherished ally. His influence on the gaming industry and on countless Native Nations, who have enhanced their economies through gaming ventures, is genuinely beyond measure,” added their statement.
IGA Objectives
The Indian Gaming Association represents over 250 gaming tribes and operates approximately 500 tribal casinos. IGA members contribute to over 1.2 million jobs. The IGA remains committed to improving the economic, social, and political well-being of Indian communities.
No cause of death has been disclosed for Stevens. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl, children Brandon, Ernest III, Margaret, Maria, and Louis, along with 20 grandchildren.