Educating elected officials and other stakeholders about today’s gaming industry is as important as ever after Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf proposed levying an eight percent tax on free play. AGA promptly replied with a letter to the Governor, saying that “taxing promotional credits would likely lead to a decrease in tax revenue from casinos – the exact opposite of the intended result.” Further, AGA explained that “taxing Pennsylvania casinos’ promotional credit programs will be an economic deterrent to casinos offering such incentives, and consequently, result in a decrease in patron play and lower tax revenues generated for state and local governments.”
Despite the harm it would cause casinos and the state, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that the Governor is standing by the proposal.
The Keystone State isn’t the first state to consider this tax proposal – just last year, lawmakers in Ohio attempted to do the same.
These proposals speak to a larger issue that gaming faces. Policymakers too often rely on antiquated notions and stereotypes of what casino gaming is all about. This is why AGA is traversing the country to tout the value of gaming and give voice to the broad range of individuals who benefit from our industry. Our industry – and our allies — will stand together to promote smart, growth-oriented policies.
Last week at Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh, AGA hosted its latest on-the-ground event to highlight the many benefits that gaming provides as a strong community partner. That theme came through loud and clear.
“I started in my basement and have been in business for 20 years. Working with Rivers is where magic comes from for small businesses,” said Carol Philp, owner of a small business in Pittsburgh that creates designs for blankets and throw pillows. “Rivers helped us grow and create new partnerships and American-made products.”
“We really value our relationship with Rivers Casino,” says Valerie Njie with Bidwell Training Center. “Our students know they will get a great income and life-long learning at Rivers.”
“Jobs are the foundation of what we are,” says Craig Clark, Rivers Casino general manager. “Diversity and inclusion are part of what Rivers is all about.”
Whether in Pennsylvania or the other 39 states where gaming calls home, our industry has a tremendous, compelling story to tell. In addition to workforce development training, charitable giving, inclusive hiring practices and serving as a strong community partner, Pennsylvania’s 12 casinos provide more than $6 billion in economic impact, support more than 33,000 jobs and generate $2.4 billion in tax revenue each year. We’re proud to work with Rivers Casino and other partners around the country to continue to educate our policymakers and tell gaming’s positive story.
As always, thank you for your support and feedback.
Sincerely,
Geoff Freeman
President and CEO
