The long-awaited Covid-19 relief package passed last week by Congress has some good news for the gaming industry, but it’s not enough, according to Bill Miller, the president and CEO of the American Gaming Association.
“While this much-needed aid is a significant step, it is imperative that the next Congress act swiftly on additional measures to address the economic challenges facing our nation and our industry,” Miller said.
“Gaming communities, companies, and employees across the country have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic—enduring mandated closures and operating restrictions, investing heavily in health and safety protocols, and playing a key role in stopping the community spread of COVID. We’ve met these challenges with resolve and resilience.”
The entire gaming industry—almost 1,000 tribal and commercial casinos nationwide—was shut down for months when the pandemic first hit in March. While most have reopened, the restrictions surrounding their operations—limited capacity, no entertainment or meetings, etc.—have limited the success of the properties, and some closed for a second time with no end in sight.
Congress must do their part to provide meaningful relief for businesses and their communities, whose vitality are inextricably linked,” Miller said. “Gaming companies support nearly 2 million American jobs, provide critical tax revenue, and serve as economic engines in communities all across America.”
Casinos were first excluded from the important Paycheck Protection Plan (PPP) until a lobbying effort by the AGA allowed a loophole for smaller casinos to be established. In the latest bill, the larger casinos would remain ineligible for a share of the $284 million set aside for a second round of PPP.
Nevada Congresswoman Dina Titus managed to make the latest bipartisan bill political. She said the package “includes less than I would have liked, but this is the best we could do with Donald Trump in the White House and Republicans in control of the Senate.” She said she hoped the bill was only a “down payment” on what the Biden administration will do when it takes office in January.
Miller also expressed a willingness to work with both Congress and the new administration
“The AGA looks forward to working with the Biden administration and 117th Congress in the new year to provide tax relief that will save gaming jobs and alleviate costs, liability protections that advance responsible reopening, incentives for reviving travel and tourism, and essential support for tribal nations,” he said.
