Coronavirus impact on tribal gaming and US economy

(PRESS RELEASE) -- Meister Economic Consulting released statistics today showing the mounting economic impact the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is having on tribal casino gaming, and as a result, the U.S. economy. The entire industry has effectively been shut down across the country, closing 500+ gaming facilities operated by 246 tribes in 29 states.

During the first two weeks of closure, Meister Economic Consulting has estimated significant losses directly at tribal casinos:

• $1.5 billion in lost economic activity (i.e., gaming and non-gaming revenue to casinos);
• 296,000 people out of work;
• $332 million in lost wages; and
• $240 million in lost taxes and revenue sharing received by federal, state, and local governments.

Dr. Alan Meister, CEO and Principal Economist of Meister Economic Consulting highlights that “these closures are causing significant detriment to Native American tribes, many of which rely heavily on gaming related revenue to pay for tribal government operations, infrastructure, and social and economic programs and services for a Native American population that is already substantially disadvantaged.”

The losses at tribal casinos have led to even greater negative economic impacts in the U.S. economy as a whole, including suppliers, governments, and employees:

• $4.4 billion in lost economic activity;
• 728,000 people out of work;
• $969 million in lost wages; and
• $631 million in lost taxes and revenue sharing received by federal, state, and local governments.