Arizona Indian Gaming contributes $2bn to state’s benefits fund
The Arizona Department of Gaming has released its Q4 report.
US.- The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) has released its Q4 report. It confirms that Tribal contributions to the Arizona Benefits Fund have totalled over $2bn since 2004. Q4 broke records, totalling $30m more than the previous year’s Q4.
The Arizona Benefits Fund helps to support instructional improvement in schools, trauma and emergency care, tourism, and wildlife conservation throughout the state. Arizona Department of Gaming now reports the total amount of Tribal contributions to over $2.03bn since 2004.
In a press conference on May 9 at Arizona State Capitol, the Arizona Indian Gaming Association (AIGA) announced that the state was expected to reach $2bn in contributions to the Arizona Benefits Fund by the second quarter of 2023, generated through Tribal gaming revenue.
Jackie Johnson, director of the Arizona Department of Gaming, said: “This is a historic year for Arizona Tribal Gaming – Not only did the State receive a record $153m in tribal contributions to the Arizona Benefits Fund, we have now seen cumulative tribal gaming contributions surpass $2bn to the State and its cities, towns, and counties. This exciting achievement highlights the long-standing partnership between the State and Arizona Tribes, which will continue to benefit all of Arizona.”
Robert Miguel, chairman of the Ak-Chin Indian Community and for AIGA, added: “We have been anticipating this report over the last month and are excited to confirm this milestone for Tribal gaming in Arizona. We have worked diligently to lead Tribal gaming and model our contribution system so that all Arizonans can benefit. This momentous occasion is a testament to all of that hard work and dedication to improving our great state.”
Chairwoman Sherry Cordova of the Cocopah Tribe and Arizonans for Tribal Government Gaming, commented: “We have come a long way since 2004 and are proud of the Tribal gaming enterprises in Arizona that make this possible. By remaining resilient, we have fostered a better Arizona for all and look forward to continuing contributions that leave a great impact on our society.”
In March, Arizona’s sports betting handle was $644m, according to a report by the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG). That’s up 6 per cent compared to February’s $609m and makes March 2023 the second-highest month since the launch of sports betting in Arizona in September 2021.
The state collected privilege fees totalling over $3.7m, resulting in $43m in privilege fees since the start of legal operations.
Gila River to celebrate new casino opening in Arizona
Gila River Resorts & Casinos is to hold an opening event for its newest location in Arizona, Santan Mountain Casino, on June 30 and July 1. The opening festivities are a culmination of a 20-month $180m project designed and built by Steelman Partners, PENTA Building Group and Tynan Group, bringing more than 700 new jobs to the east valley.
The new property features floor-to-ceiling windows, 33,000 square feet of gaming floor, 813 slot machines, 25 table games, BetMGM Sportsbook, and event space. It also offers food from Mein Dish, Upper Deck Deli and Honey & Vine.
