Chaudhuri appointed as newest NIGC Commissioner

Brings experience and relationships from Interior

News provided by

Sep 03, 2013, 01:30 ET

WASHINGTON, Sept. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell appointed Jonodev Chaudhuri (Muscogee Creek) as associate commissioner of the National Indian Gaming Commission for a three-year term. Chaudhuri will join outgoing Chairwoman Tracie Stevens (Tulalip) and Associate Commissioner Daniel Little, who recently was reappointed to a second three-year term.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130903/PH73086LOGO )

"Mr. Chaudhuri's extensive background and experience in a broad spectrum of Native American issues makes him highly qualified for this position," said Secretary Jewell. "His perspective in legal affairs and organizational administration will enrich the Commission's deliberations and contribute to informed decisions that promote economic well-being for Indian country."

Prior to joining the NIGC, Chaudhuri served as senior counselor to the Department of the Interior's Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs. In this position he focused on a wide range of national policy issues, including economic development, tribal recognition, energy and Indian gaming. Chaudhuri's professional background includes almost a decade in private practice, work as a community organizer, and service as a judge on five different tribal courts, including the Muscogee (Creek) Nation's highest court.

"Having heard from numerous tribes and tribal regulators, I appreciate the Commission's work in recent years to improve consultations, dialogue, and relationships with Indian county," said Chaudhuri. "I want to do my part to build on that work and continue to facilitate open, two-way communication between the NIGC and tribes."

Chaudhuri graduated with a bachelor's of arts degree from Dartmouth College, N.H. and a J.D. from Cornell Law School, N.Y.

Associate commissioner appointments are noticed in the Federal Register. After the conclusion of a 30-day comment period and consideration of public comment, the Secretary of the Interior moved to appoint Chaudhuri.

The National Indian Gaming Commission is committed to the prompt and efficient regulation of the Indian gaming industry, which spans more than 420 gaming establishments, associated with nearly 240 tribes across 28 states. The Commission's dedication to compliance with the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act ensures the integrity of the $27 billion Indian gaming industry. For more information, visit www.nigc.gov.

The National Indian Gaming Commission is an independent regulatory agency established within the Department of the Interior pursuant to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988.