Hearing of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee - Nomination for Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Commission

Hearing

"The Committee will consider the President's nominee, Jonodev Chaudhuri, to serve as the Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Commission.

"Last Congress, he was nominated to serve as the National Indian Gaming Commission Chairman on July 22, 2014.

"The Committee held a hearing on his nomination on November 12, 2014. The nomination was returned to the President on December 17, 2014.

"The President once again nominated Mr. Chaudhuri on January 8, 2015.

"Early consideration of this nomination is important for a number of reasons.

"The position has been vacant since September 2013, which is far too long.

"It is an important position charged by Congress with significant responsibilities in the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

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"According to the most recent data from the National Indian Gaming Commission, Indian gaming has grown to a $28 billion dollar industry.

"An industry with this amount of money flow requires the Commission to be appropriately staffed.

"The Commission must also promote integrity and accountability through regulation and enforcement.

"I have met personally with Mr. Chaudhuri. I am confident that he intends to ensure these principles are carried out by the Commission and this industry.

"I called this hearing so all of our Members have the opportunity to hear from and ask questions of Mr. Chaudhuri.

"I intend to work with the Vice Chairman on moving this nomination expeditiously.

"Mr. Chaudhuri congratulations on your nomination and welcome back to the Committee."

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