Commentary By Geoff Freeman, President and CEO, American Gaming Association

Over the past several decades, casinos have proven to be powerful economic engines in communities from coast to coast. Because of our many contributions, Americans today view gaming more favorably than ever before. But like most businesses, casinos operate in a highly competitive environment. The evolving situation in Atlantic City should send a message to other gaming communities: restrictive regulations that fail to keep pace with business demands and increased competition will stifle the gaming industry’s ability to innovate, create jobs and play an important role in economic development.

BACKGROUND: HOW ATLANTIC CITY ARRIVED AT ITS CURRENT SITUATION

As casino gaming expanded across the United States, New Jersey was slow to react. Other communities should learn from their mistake and rapidly adopt policies that empower gaming companies to innovate, retain and attract new customers and operate efficiently.

The “tax-and-torture” model adopted by many gaming communities is unsustainable. Gaming companies seek further partnerships with forward-looking policymakers who realize that punitive regulations and taxes are counter-productive and, with the right policies, casinos can be one component of a successful economic development strategy.

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