Indian Gambling Industry Rising, Despite Recession

Gambling News - August 5th, 2009 - Written by Glen

The National Indian Gaming Commission has recent released a report on their budget, which included a trove of information regarding their financial status, employee count, and future budget. The American economy, which is currently turbulent at best, has been harsh toward many of the gaming centers around the nation, but the tribal casinos scattered about the States have shown nothing but resilience in the face of monetary mishap.

Gambling options within the United States have been on the rise, and as such new tribal casinos are opening. The NIGC has added staff and increased their budget, possibly in correlation to the removal of gambling restrictions in many locations around the states. Compared to the 2008 figures, the NIGC is expected to add nearly sixteen employees. While this may not seem like much, it is a refreshing change of pace from many of the companies that are cutting jobs from their payrolls.

In 1996, the NIGC raked in just over $5 billion dollars. Three years later, in 1999, they had reached the $10 billion mark. In 2008, it was estimated that Commission oversaw the generation of an immense $25 billion. In what is called a non recession proof industry, they have done quite well. While many casinos in Vegas and Atlantic City crumble, Tribal Casinos around the nation have flourished and adapted to the shifting winds of financial trouble.

From 2006 to 2007,  the NIGC saw a slight decrease in the number of Tribal Gaming Operations, but this has not prevented the Commission from thriving. Fee revenue was still up in those years, as nearly $14 million was collected in fees for 2007, while 2006 saw just under $12 million. Additionally, staffing levels have erupted since 2003, having jumped from 63 to an estimated 114 in 2009.

In order to continue growing, the NIGC has drafted a three part plan to maximize efficiency and reduce waste. Their primary goal is to "effectively monitor compliance with gaming laws and regulations," as well as "expand knowledge and implementation of gaming laws and regulations throughout the industry." Their second strategic goal is to "improve technical assistance to tribal governments and gaming operations," and to "improve inter-agency relationships and communications." Last, but not least, they will over see the task of "improving agency administration," and "developing human resource programs that support the Commission's mission, goals and objectives."

It is clear that the National Indian Gaming Commission is on the right track, and they continue to improve the lives of Native Americans under their umbrella on a daily basis. Funds generated through Tribal Casinos stay primarily within the Native American community, with some of it also going to the Federal and State governments, as part of the agreement to allow Indian Gaming. While the NIGC is thriving now, they will most likely truly shine when the recession comes to an end.

Source - NIGC.gov

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