The American Gaming Association president and CEO Bill Miller released the following statement on COVID-19 stimulus efforts:

“In a matter of days, the U.S. casino industry went from a growing, thriving segment of the U.S. economy to a near standstill. We are witnessing a rapidly increasing number of our nation’s commercial and tribal casinos that have been shuttered, impacting 98* percent of all casino employees. This will have a dire effect on the communities in which we operate across 43 states. 

As state governments close casinos as a part of the urgent public health response to COVID-19, elected leaders should move just as urgently to support the workers and businesses who will bear the brunt of those effects. Our immediate priorities are actions that provide liquidity to allow us to support employees.

Gaming is a resilient industry. As leading hospitality companies, we’re employers, supporters of small businesses, and economic engines. Once we’re through this crisis, we are committed to working with government leaders to play a critical role in reinvigorating communities across the country.”

*Updated to reflect new closures since date of release