NIGC names Billy Kirkland associate commissioner for three-year term

The National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) has appointed William “Billy” Kirkland as an associate commissioner for a three-year term effective May 29, 2026.

Kirkland will continue serving as assistant secretary for Indian Affairs at the US Department of the Interior while taking on his new responsibilities with the commission. In the role, he will work alongside fellow commissioners in overseeing the regulation of Indian gaming and supporting cooperation with tribal governments.

An enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, Kirkland brings experience in public service, federal policy, and advisory work. According to the NIGC, his professional background includes providing support to Fortune 500 companies, political campaigns and advocacy initiatives across the United States.

“The Trump administration supports tribal sovereignty and economic development. Gaming is an important contributor to the economic success of many tribes,” said Kirkland. “I look forward to working alongside my fellow commissioners and NIGC staff to support a strong regulatory framework that upholds the integrity and success of Indian gaming.”

NIGC Associate Commissioner Sharon Avery welcomed Kirkland’s appointment and said his experience would contribute to the agency’s ongoing work with tribal gaming regulators.

“We are pleased to have Mr. Kirkland join the commission,” said Avery. “His background and commitment to public service will strengthen the agency’s work and strengthen our ongoing support to tribal gaming regulators.”

NIGC was created under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act and is composed of three full-time commissioners serving three-year terms.

Under the law, the commission chair is appointed by the president with the advice and consent of the Senate, while the Secretary of the Interior appoints the two associate commissioners.