Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr dies at 66

• Ernest L. Stevens Jr., Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association for more than 20 years, died suddenly on 26 September at age 66
• Under his leadership, tribal gaming revenues grew from $11 billion in 2000 to a record-breaking $43.9 billion in 2024
• Stevens, a citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, was re-elected to his 13th term as IGA chairman in April 2025

Ernest L. Stevens Jr., the longtime Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association who transformed tribal gaming into the largest segment of the US gaming industry, died suddenly on 26 September at age 66. The citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin passed away from a sudden medical emergency, according to his family’s statement.

Stevens dedicated more than two decades to leading the Indian Gaming Association, serving 12 consecutive terms and helping tribal gaming revenues soar from approximately $11 billion in 2000 to $43.9 billion in 2024. This growth made tribal government gaming the largest segment of the entire US gaming industry, funding essential services including schools, healthcare, infrastructure and economic development across Indian Country.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our Dad and Papa, Ernie Stevens Jr.,” his family said in a statement. “We ask for privacy at this time as our family navigates this profound loss. More information and announcements will be shared in the coming days.”

The Indian Gaming Association described Stevens as more than just a chairman in their official statement.

“Ernie Stevens, Jr. was more than a chairman; he was a warrior, a statesman, and a champion for all of Indian Country,” said Jason Giles, Executive Director of IGA. “His vision and commitment built bridges across tribal nations, Congress, and federal agencies, ensuring that tribal gaming remained a cornerstone of tribal self-determination and economic growth.”

Stevens served as an elected Oneida Nation councilman from 1993 to 1999 before taking the helm at IGA. During his tenure, he worked tirelessly to protect the integrity of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act and advance tribal sovereignty through gaming enterprises. His efforts helped establish IGA as one of the most powerful and respected voices in Washington, D.C.

The gaming industry recognised Stevens’ contributions through numerous honours, including his induction into the American Gaming Association’s Gaming Hall of Fame in 2015. He was re-elected to his 13th term as IGA chairman in April, just months before his passing.

Beyond his advocacy work, Stevens was known for his commitment to youth development and community building. The United National Indian Tribal Youth noted that he “understood that the strength of our Nations rests in the hands of our young people, and he consistently invested his time, voice, and leadership to ensure opportunities for them to thrive”.

Stevens’ death prompted tributes from across the gaming and tribal sectors. The National Indian Gaming Commission praised him as a bridge-builder who forged trust among tribes, regulators and Congress. The Oneida Nation announced it will fly flags at half-staff in his honour, whilst funeral arrangements are expected by the end of the week.

Stevens leaves behind his wife Cheryl, five children and 20 grandchildren. His passing marks the end of an era for tribal gaming, with industry leaders acknowledging his irreplaceable role in building the sector into a multi-billion dollar economic force that supports Native communities nationwide.