The American Gaming Association (AGA) has released a comprehensive study, produced by Meister Economic Consulting that reveals, on a state-by-state basis, the positive impact that tribal casino gaming has on the United States economy

Among the key findings, the report noted that California is the largest tribal gaming state by economic activity, jobs and tax payments. Tribal casinos add $20bn to the Golden State’s economy, support jobs for nearly 125,000 Californians and generate $3.4bn in taxes and revenue share payments to all levels of government annually.

The second largest tribal casino interest is Oklahoma, with tribal operations creating jobs for nearly 75,000 Oklahomans, generating $1.6bn in taxes and revenue share payments and adding $9.6bn to the state’s economy.

Tribal gaming added $6.1bn to Florida’s economy, supported nearly 46,000 jobs and generated more than $1.1bn in state, federal and local taxes and revenue share payments.

The upper Midwest, according to the report, is a hub of tribal gaming activity. Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin tribal casinos combined generated nearly $1.5bn in state, local and federal taxes and revenue share payments, supported nearly 78,000 jobs and added $10.2bn to the states’ economies.

“Tribal gaming operators are present in 28 states and create nearly half of all US gaming revenue,” said Sara Slane, senior vice president of public affairs for the AGA. “This report details the widespread economic impact that tribal casinos have in states across the country, providing diverse career opportunities, supporting local businesses and generating tax revenue and revenue share payments for all levels of government.”

Since the passage of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) in 1988, tribal gaming has grown from a $121m segment of the US gaming industry, comprising small bingo halls and gaming facilities, to a $32bn plus segment in 28 states in 2017. That revenue allows tribal casinos across the country to provide diverse career opportunities, support local businesses and fund critical state, local, and tribal government programs.

SBCA takeaways:

More big numbers from the AGA’s research tank, this time focusing on the Indian nations and their incredible influence on the US economy. Since IGRA’s inauguration in 1988 this fascinating sector of the gambling industry has proved nothing short of a success story. What these numbers also tell us is that tribal gaming will undoubtedly play an integral role in the shaping of the legalized sports betting; more so than anyone might have anticipated.