Comment on Iowa casino industry touts economic benefits of casinos described by study

DES MOINES — An industry-commissioned study has found that Iowa’s 18 state-licensed gaming casinos account for $2.5 billion in economic activity, support 16,798 jobs that pay nearly $742 million in wages and generate $726 million in federal, state, and local tax revenues — including $321.6 million in state gaming taxes.The 28-page report conducted by Oxford Economics for the American Gaming Association attempted to measure the gambling industry’s ripple effect on Iowa’s supply chain, including local businesses, and its support for a wide range of government services across the state.“I think it really confirms that the Iowa casinos are a viable part of Iowa’s economy and adding a lot of value to the state’s entertainment and tourism industries,” said Wes Ehricke of the Iowa Gaming Association.