Washington, DC – American Gaming Association (AGA) President and CEO Geoff Freeman released the following statement after the Nevada Gaming Control Board announced that a record $132.5 million was bet on Super Bowl 50 at Nevada sports books:

“The record amount wagered — legally and illegally — on Super Bowl 50 offers further proof that sports betting has become America’s new national pastime. Fans want to be invested in their favorite sports and, one way or another, will find a way to do so. AGA will continue to build support for a modern and rational approach that protects these fans and the integrity of the sports we enjoy.”

Last week, just days before Super Bowl 50, AGA released new research, conducted by The Mellman Group, that found that 80 percent of Super Bowl viewers want to change current sports betting law. 

In a major shift last November following months of study and deliberation by AGA and its members, the casino gaming industry announced its intent to study the implications of current law and build a coalition to determine if rational, legal alternatives exist. AGA has launched a new website dedicated to this effort which will serve as the hub of its campaign to educate and inform stakeholders and allies. The site will include up-to-date news, research and information on this dynamic issue. 

About AGA: The American Gaming Association is the premier national trade group representing the $240 billion U.S casino industry, which supports 1.7 million jobs in 40 states. AGA members include commercial and tribal casino operators, suppliers and other entities affiliated with the gaming industry. It is the mission of the AGA to be the single most effective champion of the industry, relentlessly protecting against harmful and often misinformed public policies, and paving a path for growth, innovation and reinvestment.