Iowa Figures Show Importance of Gambling To An Economy

Gambling has always had the support of politicians who believe that the help it can bring to an economy is priceless. In Iowa, the state is showing that the gambling impact on an economy is not priceless.

The price is $1 billion. That is the estimated figure of the impact that gambling has had on the state. Several factors went into coming up with that figure, which is an astounding number.

Any future politician that would like to show just how much of an impact gambling can make in their state, need only point to Iowa as an example. The figure is unreal in terms of how important gambling has become in the state.

"We think this is a very strong indicator of how the gaming industry is part of Iowa's economy. It is certainly adding to the state's entertainment and tourism industry," said President of the Iowa Gaming Association, Wes Ehrecke.

The gambling industry bought equipment, services, and supplies that equalled $294 million. $280 million was spent in wages, employee benefits, and salaries last year. These figures were in addition to the $351 million that was paid in local, state, and federal, taxes and fees.

Once the $80 million that gambling businesses gave to nonprofit groups and other charities is thrown in, the figure tops $1 billion. Anyone politician that is against bringing a $1 billion impact industry to their state must be checked for their actual motives of opposing gambling.

March 17, 2008
Posted By Tom Jones
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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