What is Tribal Government Gaming?
Over the last 30 years, tribal government gaming in Washington has helped tribes regain their self-reliance, create opportunities and lift people out of poverty. But what is government gaming, and how is it different from commercial gaming?
Government gaming refers to gaming enterprises run by governments to benefit people and communities. In contrast, commercial casinos generally operate to benefit their owners and shareholders.
Tribal gaming isn’t the only type of government gaming. The Washington Lottery is government gaming, too. Proceeds from the Washington Lottery fund childhood education, vocational excellence, economic development, responsible gambling and more. This use of revenue is defined by law. Similarly, the Indian Regulatory Gaming Act specifies how tribal governments can use gaming revenue. Tribes use gaming proceeds to support tribal government operations and programs, provide for the general welfare of tribal members and promote tribal economic development.
Tribal gaming also helps enrich the broader community through donations to charitable organizations, as well as financial support for local government agencies and responsible gambling and smoking cessation programs.
The Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe’s 7 Cedars Resort and Casino in Sequim, WA
Learn more about tribal government gaming and its benefits on the Washington Tribes YouTube channel.