Gambling in Our Communities
Published: July 30, 2018
According to research released by the American Gaming Association, gaming in Ohio is definitely not a little thing—it makes up $3.6 billion in our state’s economy and accounts for nearly 20,000 jobs. It has created $804,000 in supported wages and more than a half billion dollars in gaming tax revenues. In addition to creating jobs, the gaming industry sends hundreds of millions of dollars a year to state and local governments to support public safety, infrastructure and education initiatives.
“What we are seeing with the gaming industry in Ohio is a microcosm of how our economy looks when it is working as it’s designed to function,” said U.S. Rep. Steve Chabot. “Private investment creates employment opportunities for local workers, including those with disabilities, which leads to economic growth, and higher tax revenues. Higher revenues, in turn, help to support more robust local services. Simply put, everyone benefits.”
The American Gaming Association is actively working to build a coalition in support of legal sports gambling “to establish a safe and effective framework that protects consumers and creates tax benefits for local communities.” The organization is working with law enforcement, sports leagues and other interested parties to align laws with American attitudes, protect the integrity of sports, and curb illegal gambling.
As gambling expands across the country, it is important to be aware of your gambling practices and to keep them responsible. Take the Responsible Gambling Quiz today to assess your risk for problem gambling. If you think that either you or a loved one might be gambling too much, free resources are available in your area or by calling the Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-589-9966.