Harold Monteau, Former NIGC Chairman, Dies at 72
Remembering Harold Monteau and His Impact
Harold Monteau, a prominent leader and former chairman of the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC), passed away on December 27 at the age of 72. He died at his home on the Rocky Boy Reservation in Montana, leaving behind a significant legacy in tribal gaming regulation.
Leadership During the Formative Years of Indian Gaming Regulation
Monteau served as chairman during a pivotal period following the 1988 enactment of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. His guidance was crucial in establishing the foundational structure of the NIGC. Under his leadership, standards were developed that continue to uphold the integrity of tribal gaming operations. He balanced the regulatory responsibilities with respect for tribal sovereignty, addressing the diverse needs of different nations.
Tribal Recognition and Legacy
Known among his community as “Brings the Sweetgrass,” Harold Monteau was a proud member of the Chippewa Cree Tribe of Rocky Boy. His tribe honored him for his lifelong dedication to Indian Country. They emphasized that his leadership, especially through his tenure as NIGC chairman, created a lasting influence that will benefit future generations.
A Distinguished Career Beyond the Commission
Appointed chairman by President Bill Clinton in 1994, Monteau guided the Commission through its early formative years, at a time when tribal gaming was expanding rapidly and regulatory frameworks were yet to be fully developed. His work laid the groundwork for the modern structure governing Indian gaming.
Former NIGC chairman Phil Hogen credited Monteau with shaping both the agency’s regulatory and administrative systems. The current robust state of Indian gaming owes much to the foresight demonstrated during Monteau’s chairmanship.
Contributions to Tribal Justice and Education
Outside of the NIGC, Monteau held several important legal roles. He served as Chief Justice for the Mescalero Apache Tribe and later for the Chippewa Cree Tribe. He also contributed to education by teaching Indian law at the University of New Mexico and Stone Child College on the Rocky Boy Reservation.
Monteau provided valuable legal counsel to the Chippewa Cree Tribe and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Furthermore, he supported the Department of Interior’s Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) through his work on the BIA Task Force and its reorganization efforts, which aimed to promote tribal self-governance.
At the time of his passing, Monteau was serving as the Chief Justice for the Chippewa Cree Tribe, continuing his lifelong commitment to justice and tribal leadership.
