Federal Register :: Proposed Appointment to the National Indian Gaming Commission

The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, 25 U.S.C. 2701
et seq.,
established the National Indian Gaming Commission (Commission), composed of three fulltime members. Commission members serve for a time period of three years. The Chair is appointed by the President with the recommendation and consent of the Senate. The two affiliate members are appointed by the Secretary of the Interior. Before appointing an affiliate member to the Commission, the Secretary is required to “publish within the
Federal Register
the identify and different info the Secretary deems pertinent relating to a nominee for membership on the Commission and . . . permit a interval of not lower than thirty days for receipt of public feedback.”
See25 U.S.C. 2704(b)(2)(B).

The Secretary proposes appointing William (Billy) Henry Kirkland III as an affiliate member of the Commission for a time period of three years. Mr. Kirland is effectively certified to be a member of the Commission by advantage of his intensive background and expertise in a broad spectrum of Native American points.

Mr. Kirkland is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation. He at the moment serves because the Assistant Secretary—Indian Affairs on the United States Department of the Interior. He was confirmed by the United States Senate on October 7, 2025.

Prior to his appointment, Mr. Kirkland delivered high-impact providers to Fortune 500 corporations, political candidates, and advocacy campaigns, driving strategic outcomes for companies and organizations throughout the nation. His management expertise consists of managing skilled groups, growing refined marketing campaign methods, and attaining important legislative and public relations outcomes.

Mr. Kirkland’s profession in public service consists of serving within the Executive Office of the President as particular assistant to the President and deputy director of Intergovernmental Affairs. In this position, he led tribal engagement efforts for the White House, revitalized the White House Council on Native American Affairs Policy Agenda, and coordinated the first-ever Oval Office recognition of Navajo Code Talkers. His work superior collaboration amongst federal, tribal, state, and native leaders, strengthening government-to-government relationships nationwide.

Mr. Kirkland holds a bachelor’s diploma from the University of Georgia. He has been acknowledged with a number of distinguished honors, together with the University of Georgia’s Top 40 Under 40 Award, designation as an Eagle Scout, and appointment to the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars.

Mr. Kirkland doesn’t have any monetary pursuits that might make him ineligible to serve on the Commission below 25 U.S.C. 2704(b)(5)(B) or (C).

Any particular person wishing to submit feedback on the proposed appointment of William Kirkland could submit written feedback to the tackle listed above. Comments have to be obtained by May 27, 2026.

25 U.S.C. 2704(b)(2)(B)