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According to the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG), contributions to the Arizona Benefits Fund are steadily increasing.
Recent data shows tribal gambling in Arizona contributed over $27 million, a 19.9% increase compared to the same quarter of FY 2022.
The ADG was established by the state legislature in 1995. It is the regulatory agency for tribal gaming, racing and pari-mutuel/simulcast wagering, and unarmed combat sports. The regulatory body also provides responsible gambling services through its Division of Problem Gambling and 24-hour confidential helpline, 1-800-NEXT-STEP.
Tribal gambling contributions increased by almost 20%
In a statement, Jackie Johnson, director of the ADG, said:
“The state of tribal gaming in Arizona continues to impress, with a near 20 percent increase in contributions to the state when compared to quarter three of FY 2022. Since 2004, tribal gaming has contributed over $1.98 billion to the state and its cities, towns and counties.
I look forward to seeing the quarter four release for FY 2023, which will undoubtedly see Arizona surpass a historic milestone of $2 billion in total tribal contributions.”
The Arizona Benefits Fund provides significant dollars to support various segments throughout the state:
- Instructional improvement in schools
- Trauma and emergency care
- Tourism
- Wildlife conservation
Tribal gaming operators contribute 88% of their gross gaming revenue (GGR) to the fund.
Tribal gambling in Arizona, third-quarter breakdown
Per the state-tribal compact, tribes with casinos contribute a percentage of their revenue to the state, cities, towns and counties. Class III gaming includes Arizona sports betting, slot machines and table games.
For Q3 – FY 2023, contributions include:
- Instructional Improvement Fund/Education – $13,759,623
- Trauma and Emergency Services Fund – $6,879,811
- Arizona Department of Gaming operating costs – $2,484,683
- Arizona Wildlife Conservation Fund – $1,965,660
- Tourism Fund – $1,965,660
- Problem Gambling Education, Treatment and Prevention – $552,152
- Total: $27,607,589
Speaking of sports betting, to kick off the year, AZ sportsbooks generated $591.2 million in betting handle for January 2023. The three retail sports betting operators, FanDuel, BetMGM and Caesars combined for $4.7 million.
The 24 Arizona casinos are overseen by the ADG and tribal entities.
