Biloxi, MS –American Gaming Association reported that tax revenue generated by Mississippi casinos is set to reach $6.5 billion by the industry’s 25th anniversary in 2017.
The AGA said that is enough to fund the entire state budget for a single year. The $6.5 billion in gaming tax revenue does not include the billions of additional dollars contributed to state and local governments in the form of property, sales, payroll and other taxes.
At IP Casino Resort in Biloxi on Wednesday, leaders from the Gulf Coast business, political, non-profit and education communities joined gaming executives for a roundtable conversation to highlight the positive economic and community impact gaming has in Mississippi and the Gulf Coast, including in the wake of major natural and man-made disasters.
“Gaming is an invaluable community partner on the Gulf Coast, but no state can rest on its laurels,” said Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the American Gaming Association. “Sports betting offers a tremendous opportunity to give southern Mississippi sports fans what they want and ensures gaming continues to benefit Mississippi for years to come.”
“Gaming is a consistent economic driver for people in a region that has endured natural disaster and turmoil,” said Ashley Edwards, president, Gulf Coast Business Council. “The progress and influence we continue to realize as ‘One Coast’ is due in large part to the deep commitment of our Gulf Coast casinos to promoting opportunity and collaboration.”
Despite the casinos across the state, Mississippians are still unable to gamble on sports. However, that just might be on the way.
“Sports betting may be the next step in the journey that gaming has made in Mississippi,” said Gregory. “It could add another level to this platform of revenue and bring even more income to the state and its economy.”
80 percent of Super Bowl viewers want to change current sports betting law, and two-thirds (66%) believe states should decide whether to legalize sports betting. Sixty-five percent of Super Bowl viewers believe transparent, regulated wagering will either strengthen the integrity of games or have no impact on game outcomes.
The first legal gaming establishments in Mississippi opened in 1992.
Information provided from press release.
