Former National Indian Gaming Commission Chairman Harold Monteau passes away at 72

Harold Monteau, a key figure in the development of the National Indian Gaming Commission and longtime advocate for tribal sovereignty, passed away on December 27 at his home on the Rocky Boy Reservation in Montana. He was 72.

“Harold dedicated his life to Indian Country,” the Chippewa Cree Tribe said in a statement. “And his leadership, especially as Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Commission, leaves a legacy that will endure for generations.”

Monteau, also known by his Native name “Brings the Sweetgrass” (Kah-pe-taht wi-Kah-se), was a citizen of the Chippewa Cree Tribe of Rocky Boy. He is survived by his wife and children.

In 1994, Monteau was appointed chairman of the National Indian Gaming Commission by President Bill Clinton. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in shaping the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act and establishing the framework for tribal gaming compacts across the United States.

“His work helped establish standards that continue to support the integrity and success of tribal gaming,” the National Indian Gaming Commission said in a statement. “Chairman Monteau’s leadership ensured regulatory oversight was grounded in respect for tribal authority and the unique needs of each nation.

Phil Hogen, a former NIGC chairman who served alongside Monteau, recalled the formative years of the commission. "Under Harold’s leadership, the initial administrative and regulatory framework of the NIGC was written, and the passage of time and the spectacular development of the industry and its tremendous support of Indian communities have proved the wisdom and foresight of that structure."

“Harold was a guardian of Tribal Sovereignty, and he left us too soon,” he added.

Beyond gaming, Monteau had a distinguished career in the justice system. He served as Chief Justice for the Mescalero Apache Tribe and later for the Chippewa Cree Tribe, taught Indian law at the University of New Mexico and Stone Child College, and provided legal counsel to multiple tribes, as well as to the Department of the Interior’s BIA Task Force and Reorganization.

At the time of his passing, Monteau was serving as Chief Justice for the Chippewa Cree Tribe. “We were deeply honored that he returned home to serve our people as Chief Judge, guiding our court with dignity, wisdom, and quiet strength,” the tribe said.