TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma (UKB) announced today that the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) has officially approved the Tribe’s 2025 Tribal Gaming Code, clearing the way for future gaming operations on UKB Indian lands.
In a letter dated April 14, NIGC Acting Chairwoman Sharon M. Avery stated, “The 2025 UKB Gaming Code is consistent with the requirements of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act and NIGC regulations and is hereby approved.”
The new ordinance, adopted as Resolution 25-UKB-27, rescinds all prior gaming codes and establishes a modernized legal and regulatory framework for the Tribe to conduct and oversee Class I, II and III gaming. The code applies to lands held in trust for the Keetoowah Band within the Oklahoma Cherokee Reservation, excluding lands held in trust for or owned by the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma.
“This is a major step forward in our efforts to build economic opportunities for our Tribe and our surrounding community,” said UKB Chief Jeff Wacoche. “Gaming is one of several economic development tools we’re pursuing to generate revenue and deliver critical services to our members.”
The ordinance outlines licensing procedures, vendor regulations, and oversight authority through the UKB Licensing Commission. It also affirms that net gaming revenues may be used to support tribal governance, community welfare, economic development, charitable giving, and local partnerships.
“While additional steps remain before UKB gaming operations resume, the NIGC’s decision affirms what decades of federal law have made clear: Indian tribes have the right to regulate and conduct gaming on their lands,” Wacoche added. “We commend the Commission and the Department of the Interior for recognizing and upholding that legal foundation.”
The 2025 Gaming Code marks a pivotal moment in the UKB’s broader commitment to tribal sovereignty, self-determination, and sustainable economic growth.
The full ordinance and NIGC approval letter are available at www.nigc.gov.
