The Arizona Indian Gaming Association (AIGA) in a resolution declared its support of the Arizona Education Finance Amendment, known as Proposition 123.
“Funding for Arizona’s schools is critical to the economic growth and vitality of the state and will vastly improve the quality of life for all Arizonans,” AIGA Chairman Louis J. Manuel Jr. said. “Proposition 123 is consistent with AIGA member tribes’ efforts to provide all Arizona students with exceptional education and educational opportunities.”
Through gaming compacts, AIGA says the 15 tribes it represents contributed more than $500 million toward state education funding—both on and off reservations. The funds help to pay for early reading programs, dropout prevention programs, reduction of class sizes, and teacher salaries.
AIGA says Proposition 123 would create much-needed funding Arizona schools, with some estimates saying it would generate an additional $3.5 billion for K-12 education funding over the next decade.
“We as voters have the power to give our children, and future generations, the priceless gift of a great education,” said Manuel.
Arizona voters cast ballots on Prop 123 on May 17. Vote totals, however, were too close to call as of May 19.
