July 2021

Tribes Drive Washington’s Economy

Washington State is home to 29 federally recognized Indian Tribes located throughout the state — from Neah Bay on the Pacific Coast to Usk near the eastern state border. Each Tribe has its own tribal government and businesses, which support regional communities and improve people’s lives, Indian and non-Indian alike.

Tribal business enterprises are a driver of Washington’s economy. They employ over 37,000 people, spend billions of dollars on the purchase of goods and services from private companies and generate millions of dollars in federal, state and local taxes.

Learn more about Tribes’ impact on the economy.

“Tribal governments and their business enterprises are investing heavily in Washington communities, creating thousands of family-wage jobs and supporting critical services like housing, education and skills training, healthcare, social services, natural resources and environmental programs. The benefits are real.”

— W. Ron Allen, Chairman and CEO of the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe and Chair of the Washington Indian Gaming Association Board.

Stepping Up During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Tribal governments have been on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, providing essential services that protect communities. Across the state, tribes stepped up and offered vaccinations, testing, public education, elderly care, and much more to ensure communities are safe and basic necessities are met during this trying time. And many tribal enterprises, such as casinos and hotels, have instituted important measures to keep employees and patrons safe.

Here are just a few things Tribes have done to help communities during the pandemic:

Port Gamble S’Klallam and Suquamish Tribes hosted a clinic to get teachers and kids vaccinated
Stillaguamish Tribe raised and distributed emergency funds to advocate for government relief packages
Quinault Indian Nation established COVID-19 testing sites
Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation supported vulnerable elders with various programs
Squaxin Island Tribe distributed meals to support stay-at-home measures

Investing in our Environment and Natural Resources

Our state’s Indian Tribes make investments in smart natural resources management and environmental planning. Their work includes watershed planning, water quality programs, environmental education, environmental assessments, salmon recovery programs and more.

Watch a video about the importance of environmental stewardship to Washington Tribes.

Tribal Sports Wagering Funds Community Services and Protects Public Safety

Did you know that last year, Washington state lawmakers passed legislation that allows legal sports betting at tribal casinos? The bipartisan legislation dictates sports wagering take place in a controlled manner that protects public safety. And revenues generated from sports wagering will fund critical services for both tribal and non-tribal community members, such as housing, education, and health and human services.

On June 10, the Washington State Gambling Commission (WSGC) unanimously approved 15 newly negotiated tribal compact agreements, a pivotal step in the extensive regulatory process that will allow sports betting to go live at tribal casinos in the coming months. The compact agreements are now headed to Tribal councils, the Governor of Washington, and federal regulators. The first legal bets are expected to take place this fall.

Find out more about sports betting in Washington .

WIGA Awards 34 Scholarships to Native American Students

The Washington Indian Gaming Association has awarded $60,000 in scholarships to 34 Native American students for the 2021-2022 school year. These awards promote tribal self-sufficiency by advancing student potential and expanding opportunities for higher education.

Learn more about the recipients and their plans for the future .

“These exceptional students have overcome a great deal to get this far – COVID has really taken a toll and what these awardees have accomplished is remarkable.”

— Josie Ward, Hoh Tribal Business Council Treasurer and Washington Indian Gaming Association scholarship committee member.

Recent News About Tribes in Washington

To learn more about Washington Tribes, visit WashingtonTribes.org. Make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram to receive up-to-date information and content.

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