Since casinos opened in Louisiana in 1993, gaming has been a driving force in the state’s economy. Not only does gaming create jobs and spur investment and tourism throughout Louisiana, but it also provides a much needed source of reliable tax revenue to the state.  In times of natural disaster, casinos have opened their doors to their communities and led efforts to get Louisianans back on their feet.

Casinos & Communities: Louisiana provides a comprehensive overview of how gaming has impacted the state, pairing key data—$6.1 billion in economic impact and 15,364 jobs supported—with firsthand accounts from business owners, elected officials, and nonprofit leaders of gaming’s community impact on the Bayou State.

Louisianans make clear that they view casinos not just as entertainment options, but as sources of economic opportunity. Like Christy Dirks, president of Limousine Livery, who says, “If not for the casino industry, I might not have been able to turn this company around. We might not have been able to keep the doors open. I might not be able to keep 130 families gainfully employed on a full-time basis.”

Those that live in Louisiana’s gaming communities also describe casinos as good-willed corporate citizens. Kyle Edmiston, president and CEO of the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau says, “The casinos have been excellent partners in the community in every aspect of quality of life for citizens, of nonprofits, of business development, and they have stood, ready and willing to listen and help wherever they saw the need.”

The numbers and stories behind Louisiana gaming paint a picture that is consistent with other states: gaming is a force for economic and social good.