Study by AIGA reveals economic benefits of Indian gaming in Arizona

AIGA (Arizona Indian Gaming Association) published a study result, which was based on the economic impact of Indian Gaming in Arizona. Taylor Policy Group, headed by Jonathan B. Taylor (An economic consultant from Florida), conducted the study.

This study pointed out that there are more than 15,000 individuals directly employed with Indian Gaming across Arizona. If this number is compared with the figures provided by Bureau of Labor Statistics, which tallies the employment with the type of job, direct job count in Indian Gaming leads both logging and mining industry. If you add indirect jobs to the mix as well, the overall count exceeds 20,000.

This study also revealed the impact of these jobs on the economy of the state. It is estimated to have added close to USD 1 billion in 2011. This figure constitutes the property income, indirect taxes on the business and labor income. Since most of these reservations are located in the rural area of the state, it was noted by the study that the industry has spread jobs in those parts of the state, where it is most needed.

Executive Director of AIGA, Valerie Spice, said, while revealing the results of the study, “Indian Gaming has contributed directly in the development of rural economy in the state. It has played role in producing jobs, bringing investment and attracting tourism in the areas in Arizona, where historically, economic situation has been quite poor.”

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