Phoenix (Sept 18, 2026) – The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) announced today $47,591,384 in tribal gaming contributions to the Arizona Benefits Fund for the first quarter of Fiscal Year (FY) 2027. This represents an approximate 2.9 percent increase when compared to the same quarter of FY 2026.
The Arizona Benefits Fund receives 88 percent of tribal gaming contributions, providing significant dollars to support instructional improvement for schools, trauma and emergency care, tourism, and wildlife conservation throughout the state.
Tribal gaming contributions to the Arizona Benefits Fund for the first quarter of the State’s FY 2027 are distributed in alignment with the Arizona Tribal-State Gaming Compact as follows:
| Instructional Improvement Fund/Education: | $23,719,546 |
| Trauma and Emergency Services Fund: | $11,859,773 |
| Arizona Department of Gaming operating costs: | $4,283,225 |
| Arizona Wildlife Conservation Fund: | $3,388,506 |
| Tourism Fund: | $3,388,506 |
| Problem Gambling Education, Treatment and Prevention: | $951,828 |
| TOTAL Tribal Gaming Contributions to the Arizona Benefits Fund: | $47,591,384 |
Out of the total tribal gaming contributions, the remaining 12 percent is distributed by the tribes to the cities, towns, and counties of their choosing for community services and public safety programs
for local governments. Since FY 2004, cumulative contributions have totaled approximately $2.6 billion. Currently, there are 26 Class III casinos in Arizona, which ADG regulates in partnership with Arizona tribes. For more information about tribal gaming, visit: gaming.az.gov/tribal-gaming-page.
The Department also reminds consumers of the importance of responsible gaming. Through its Responsible Play for a Stronger Arizona campaign, the Department provides education and resources to help Arizonans understand the risks associated with gambling and make informed decisions. As part of responsible play, Arizona residents are encouraged to Check Your Bet by verifying that any gambling, event wagering, or fantasy sports platform appears on the Department’s list of approved operators before participating. Regulated gaming also provides important consumer protections, including fair play and fair winnings, data security, accountability, and a safer overall experience.
About the Arizona Department of Gaming
Established by the Arizona State Legislature in 1995, the Arizona Department of Gaming is the state regulatory agency for tribal gaming, event wagering & fantasy sports contests, racing and pari-mutuel/simulcast wagering, and unarmed combat sports. In addition to its regulatory responsibilities, ADG protects and educates consumers through initiatives including Check Your Bet, which helps Arizonans identify licensed and regulated gaming operators; Responsible Gaming education and resources; and Arizona’s Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program for individuals who choose to step away from gambling and “Take Back the Game.” The Department also provides and supports education, prevention, and treatment programs for people and families affected by problem gambling through its Division of Problem Gambling and 24-hour confidential helpline, 1-800-NEXT-STEP.
NOTE TO MEDIA: The Department and its Division of Problem Gambling encourage media partners to include supportive resources when reporting on gambling, event wagering, fantasy sports, or other wagering-related activities:
Problem Gambling Awareness
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, you can get help now by calling the confidential helpline at 1-800-NEXT-STEP (1-800-639-8783), texting NEXTSTEP to 53342, or using the chat feature at problemgambling.az.gov. The helpline connects callers with statewide providers specializing in low and no-cost treatment for problem gambling and financial counseling. Help is available 24/7 for individuals, family members, friends, and co-workers.
Media Contact
Jessica Roza, Interim PIO
jroza@azgaming.gov
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Download News Release for September 18, 2026
