National Indian Gaming Commission Releases Revenue Figures for Tribal Government Gaming Operations

SACRAMENTO, Calif., July 25, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Tribal Government Gaming Revenues for the Western region have increased by 1.45 percent according to a report issued by the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC).  Gross gaming revenues (GGR) reached $7 billion in 2012, up from $6.9 billion in 2011.  The Western region includes 64 tribal gaming operations in California and Northern Nevada.

"California's tribal governments are proud to contribute to the overall economy of this great state," said Daniel J. Tucker, Chairman of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association. "Tribal government gaming operations have seen a slow but steady increase in business and this has translated to increased jobs for all Californians.  According to the California Employment Development Department tribal governments currently employ 55,800 Californian's, an increase of .7% from the previous year."

The NIGC reports that nationwide, "98 Indian gaming operations reported gaming revenue between $10 million and $25 million, 70 Indian gaming operations reported gaming revenue between $3 million and $10 million and 69 Indian gaming operations reported gaming revenue less than $2 million."

"These numbers illustrate that the majority of tribal gaming operations are small to mid-size," said Tracie Stevens, Chairwoman of the NIGC.  "The industry is driven by the demographics of each area.  Most tribal gaming operations are in rural parts of the country where jobs are greatly needed for both natives and non-natives alike."

"Much like the rest of the country, California's tribal governments vary from large to small," said Tucker.  "Through the use of gaming revenues, each of these tribes has been able to build stronger tribal governments, provide infrastructure on their reservations, provide scholarships and healthcare to their members and donate revenue to state and local governments and charities.  We are very proud of the positive economic impact tribal gaming has had both on and off the reservation."

About the Report

According to the NIGC, "The GGR report is calculated based on independently audited financial statements received by the NIGC through June 20, 2013.  Financial statements are submitted by Indian gaming operations in accordance with the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.  Gaming revenues represent the net win from gaming activities, which is the difference between gaming receipts and payouts."

A copy of the NIGC's press release, including charts and graphics can be found at www.nigc.gov/media.  

About CNIGA

The California Nations Indian Gaming Association is a non-profit association comprised of federally recognized tribal governments dedicated to the protection of tribal sovereignty and the right of tribes to have gaming on Indian lands.

SOURCE California Nations Indian Gaming Association