The Iowa Gaming Association strives to dispel myths about gaming so citizens can make informed decisions. While opponents cite anecdotal evidence that suggests the gaming industry is responsible for a number of social problems, independent studies have consistently proven otherwise. The following are just some of the studies, all of which can be viewed in their entirety.
2018 State of the States, an American Gaming Association Survey on Commercial Gaming
This annual report from the American Gaming Association (AGA) is the definitive economic analysis of U.S. commercial gaming in the 2017 calendar year. Detailed reporting on Iowa's commercial gaming market begins on page 39 and includes information such as an overview and performance analysis, as well as competitive landscape, policy and regulation discussion.
2015 Survey of Adult Iowans' Gambling Attitudes & Behaviors
This 2015 survey for the Iowa Department of Public Health by the University of Northern Iowa, Center for Social and Behavior Research collected data from adult Iowans about their gambling prevalence, behavior, attitudes, and their awareness and opinions of publicly funded gambling treatments.
A Socioeconomic Impact of Gambling on Iowans
In May 2014, the Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission released the report "A Socioeconomic Impact of Gambling on Iowans," a report created by Strategics Economic Group and Spectrum Gaming Group. The detailed findings discuss topics ranging from personal finance to economic impact to health and local community services.
Impacts of the Commercial Gaming Industry in Iowa
A 2014 study conducted by Oxford Economics and the American Gaming Association examines the immense economic impact of the gaming industry on Iowa’s economy. The American Gaming Association released the first-of-its-kind study, which measured the industry’s significant ripple effect on the supply chain, including local businesses.
The study found that in 2013, Iowa’s gaming industry:
- Contributed $2.5 billion to Iowa’s economy
- Supported approximately 17,000 Iowa jobs and nearly $742 million in income
- Generated $726 million in tax revenues to local, state and federal governments. Read the full study here.
Get to Know Gaming
"Get to Know Gaming" is the American Gaming Association's most aggressive effort ever to promote the value of the gaming industry, combat outdated stereotypes and pave the way for gaming's next generation where regulatory policy must encourage innovation and financial efficiencies. The site provides state-by-state statistics and highlights the industry's trusted partnership with community leaders, law enforcement, small businesses and the nearly 1 million Americans it employs. Its June 2014 launch was coordinated with the release of a detailed, nationwide survey providing valuable insights about the people who enjoy the entertainment options casinos offer.
2012 Study Finds Slot Machine Players Don't Fit the Stereotype
This study from Oregon State University-Cascades found that the most common profile of a slot machine enthusiast was a female homeowner, between the ages of 55 and 60, with at least some college education and an annual household income of more than $55,000. Read more here.