Indian Gaming 2017 Tradeshow and Conference

Tribal-State Investments in Responsible Gaming Activities: Are Tribal Funds being Maximized by State Agencies? (Room 30 A)

This session examines strategies for tribal representatives to hold state agencies accountable for their investment of tribal government gaming revenues that are earmarked for responsible gaming efforts.

As revenue sharing has become a standard practice in most tribal-state compacts, state agencies are often managing significant tribal gaming revenues, including revenues directed at responsible gaming education, prevention, research or treatment. However, it is not always clear how (or whether) these funds are being invested in ways that benefit either Indian Country or tribal gaming guests. Tribal representatives in several states are pursuing audits or other strategies in order to uncover and then direct the investment of these funds in ways that maximize benefits to their communities and guests. This session will also explore the various options for investing responsible gaming funds by tribal governments and casino operations when funds are retained or returned to tribal operators.