This First Nation-run gambling regulator operating in Kahnawake, Canada was established in June 1996. The Kahnawake Gaming Commission then began licensing in 1999 with online games – making it one of the first jurisdictions to do so. The Commission would likely not be established without the help of the First Nations Gaming Act becoming a Canadian gambling law.
What First Nation Operates The Kahnawake Gaming Commission?
The Kahnawake Gaming Commission is operated by the Mohawk First Nation’s tribe and people. The Commission itself sits on the Mohawk territory of Kahnawake. The territory is only 20 square miles and there are approximately 8,000 Mohawk persons left living on the reservation.
Who Manages The Kahnawake Gaming Commission?
The sovereignty earned by the Mohawk First Nation empowers them to license and regulate gambling activities within or from their territory. The board which comprised the Commission is made up of three members who are appointed for 2-year terms each. The Commission uses the advice of in-house personnel, approved agents, and other professionals to operate.
What Does The Kahnawake Gaming Commission Regulate?
The Gaming Commission regulates online licensees and land-based gambling establishments in Kahnawake. Online operators receive their licenses from Kahnawake and thus the Commission must regulate and ensure industry compliance with their interactive casinos, poker, and sports gaming. Land-based venues within the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawake rely on the Commission to oversee their satellite poker rooms, electronic gaming devices, and raffles.
What Does This Mean For Canadian Domestic Gaming?
The Kahnawake Gaming Commission was one of the first to recognize the potential of iGaming products and services. The Kahnawake Gaming Commission allowed licensing for Canadian online casino iGaming providers and regulates a large part of the online gaming industry. The early adoption of online gambling allowed the Kahnawake Gaming Commission to become a big player in the now booming industry.
The Kahnawake’s management over interactive games means those games reached at home are certified to be fair and honest with Kahnawake’s reputation on the line each and every time. The Kahnawake Gaming Commission also licenses land-based gambling venues fixed in Kahnawake. This also means the regulator is the primary authority over all physical gambling operations in the region.