Tribal gaming leaders are rolling out a groundbreaking self-exclusion program, marking a major step toward responsible gambling and community support. The initiative, which allows individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from all participating tribal casinos in a single move, will debut in Wisconsin this March before expanding nationwide.
A Unified Effort to Address Problem Gambling
For years, responsible gambling efforts have been fragmented, with self-exclusion policies varying by casino or state. Now, tribal leaders are taking matters into their own hands with a streamlined, tribal-wide solution.
“This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to the health of our people and communities,” said Ivory Kelly, CEO of the Tribal Council for Responsible Gaming. By offering a unified self-exclusion process, tribes are ensuring that those seeking help can take meaningful action without navigating complicated, casino-specific rules.
This program is built on a partnership between tribal leaders and idPair, a software company known for its work in regulatory compliance and community-focused technology. The goal is simple: to give people the tools they need to control their gambling habits in a way that respects both their choices and tribal sovereignty.
Who’s Behind the Initiative?
A coalition of tribal gaming leaders and regulatory experts has come together to oversee the program. Their involvement ensures that the initiative is not only effective but also aligns with tribal values and gaming regulations.
The Advisory Board members include:
- Anika Howard – President/CEO, Wondr Nation
- Jamie Hummingbird – Chairman, National Tribal Gaming Commissioners/Regulators
- Oscar Schuyler – Chairman, Board of Regulators, Tribal Gaming Regulatory Authority, Alabama Coushatta Tribe of Texas
- Ernie Stevens, Jr. – Chairman, Indian Gaming Association of Washington, DC
- Tamara Van Schyndel – Executive Director, Paskenta Tribal Gaming Commission
These leaders bring decades of experience in gaming regulation, tribal governance, and responsible gambling advocacy. Their guidance will help shape the expansion and effectiveness of the program as it reaches more states.
How the Self-Exclusion Program Works
The new system eliminates the confusion and red tape that often discourages people from seeking help. Instead of having to apply separately at each casino, participants can now self-exclude from all participating tribal casinos in a single step.
Some key aspects of the program:
- Easy Enrollment – Individuals can sign up once and be excluded from all casinos under the program.
- Flexible Duration – Players can choose the length of their exclusion, whether temporary or permanent.
- Technology-Driven – The platform is powered by idPair, ensuring secure and efficient management of exclusion requests.
By making the process more accessible, tribal leaders hope to remove barriers for those who need it most.
Tribal Nations Leading the Way
Tribal nations have long been recognized for their leadership in responsible gambling initiatives. Many have developed in-house programs to support their communities, but this new effort takes it a step further.
“This initiative not only underscores the commitment of tribal nations to player protection but also sets a precedent for others to follow,” said Ernie Stevens, Jr., Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association.
By working together, tribal leaders are demonstrating that responsible gambling isn’t just a casino issue—it’s a community issue. Their collaborative approach could inspire broader industry changes, encouraging commercial casinos and other gambling establishments to adopt similar measures.
What’s Next for the Program?
The launch in Wisconsin this March is just the beginning. As more tribal casinos join the initiative, the impact could be significant, providing a safety net for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
Looking ahead, tribal leaders plan to evaluate the program’s effectiveness and make adjustments as needed. Expansion into additional states is expected, with more tribes expressing interest in joining the initiative.
With this program, tribal nations are proving that responsible gaming isn’t just about policies—it’s about people.
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