Tribal Gaming in Arizona Funds Rise to $43.5 Million

Phoenix, AZ — The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) recently reported a significant increase in tribal gaming contributions to the Arizona Benefits Funds, totaling $43.5 million for the fourth quarter of the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24). This marks a 3% rise from the $42.1 million contributed in the same period last year.

The fourth quarter's contribution represents a notable increase from the $28.6 million recorded in the third quarter of FY24. This rise is primarily attributed to a surge in sports betting activity across the state.

Q4 2023:

• Educational Programs: 56%
• Emergency Services and Trauma Centers: 28%
• Wildlife and Habitat Conservation: 7%
• Statewide Tourism Promotion: 7%
• Problem Gambling Prevention and Treatment: 2%

Jackie Johnson, Cabinet Executive Officer of the ADG, praised the ongoing contributions from tribal gaming. “Celebrating yet another remarkable milestone in tribal gaming, we are thrilled to announce that Arizona has witnessed yet another record-breaking year. With a record contribution of $157.2 million to the Arizona Benefits Fund, our tribal partners have once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the prosperity of our state and local communities. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our tribal partners for their continued dedication and collaboration,” Johnson stated.

Detailed Allocation of Funds

By state law, a portion of gaming revenue from Arizona tribes is allocated to various state needs, including public safety, economic development, and specific contributions to the Arizona Benefits Funds. In the fourth quarter of FY24, the largest share of these funds, $22.5 million, was directed to the Instructional Improvement Fund to support educational programs. Contributions to trauma and emergency services followed, totaling $10.9 million. The ADG’s operating costs were covered with $3.3 million, while wildlife conservation and statewide tourism each received $3.1 million. Additionally, $735,000 was allocated for the education, treatment, and prevention of problem gambling.

Impact of Tribal Gaming

[statebox post_id=”39366″ align=”alignleft”The Arizona Tribal-State Compact has significantly contributed to the state’s economic development for over two decades. The compact has created more than 20,000 jobs and provided over $2.2 billion to cities, counties, and the Arizona Benefits Funds through Class III gaming revenue.

Currently, Arizona hosts 25 Class III casinos, regulated by the ADG in partnership with tribal entities. These casinos are key components of the state’s gaming industry, which has seen substantial growth, particularly in sports betting.

Looking ahead, there are expectations for further developments in Arizona’s gaming landscape, including the potential expansion of tribal gaming to include online casinos. Such discussions are likely to be a part of future negotiations for the tribal compact.

The recent entries of gaming operators such as Lotto.com and Fanatics' online sportsbook indicate growing interest in Arizona’s gaming sector. This trend highlights the dynamic nature of the state’s gaming industry and its evolving regulatory environment.

The ongoing contributions from tribal gaming are essential in funding critical services and promoting economic development in Arizona, showcasing the effective partnership between the state government and tribal entities.