The Rise of Casinos in Rhode Island

Table of Contents

Over the past few decades, the casino industry has experienced significant growth across the United States. One state that has embraced this trend is Rhode Island. With the introduction of casinos, the state has seen a boost in tourism, job creation, and revenue generation. In this article, we will explore the rise of casinos in Rhode Island, their impact on the local economy, and the future prospects of this industry.

The History of Casinos in Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s journey into the world of casinos began in 1973 when the state legalized pari-mutuel betting on horse racing. This move laid the foundation for the development of the gambling industry in the state. However, it wasn’t until 1992 that Rhode Island took a significant step forward by legalizing video lottery terminals (VLTs) at the state’s two racetracks, Lincoln Park and Newport Jai Alai.

The introduction of VLTs marked the first major expansion of gambling in Rhode Island. These electronic gaming machines, similar to slot machines, allowed players to wager on various games of chance. The revenue generated from VLTs provided a much-needed boost to the state’s economy, leading to further discussions about expanding the gambling industry.

The Emergence of Full-Scale Casinos

In 2012, Rhode Island took another leap forward by legalizing full-scale casinos. Twin River Casino in Lincoln and Newport Grand Casino in Newport were granted licenses to operate table games, such as blackjack, poker, and roulette. This decision was driven by the desire to compete with neighboring states, such as Connecticut and Massachusetts, which had already established successful casino industries.

The introduction of full-scale casinos in Rhode Island had a profound impact on the state’s economy. It created thousands of jobs, attracted tourists from across the region, and generated substantial revenue for the state. According to a report by the American Gaming Association, Rhode Island’s casinos contributed over $300 million in taxes and fees to the state in 2019 alone.

The Economic Impact of Casinos in Rhode Island

The economic impact of casinos in Rhode Island cannot be overstated. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key benefits that have emerged as a result of the casino industry’s growth:

Job Creation: The casino industry has been a significant source of employment in Rhode Island. According to the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, the state’s casinos employed over 6,000 people in 2019. These jobs range from dealers and pit bosses to hotel staff and security personnel.
Tourism Boost: The presence of casinos has attracted tourists from neighboring states, boosting Rhode Island’s tourism industry. Visitors come not only to gamble but also to enjoy the various amenities offered by the casinos, such as restaurants, entertainment venues, and hotels.
Revenue Generation: The revenue generated by casinos has had a significant impact on the state’s budget. The taxes and fees collected from the gambling industry have been used to fund various public services, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
Small Business Support: The growth of the casino industry has also benefited small businesses in Rhode Island. Local restaurants, shops, and hotels have experienced increased patronage from casino visitors, leading to a boost in their revenue.

The Future of Casinos in Rhode Island

Looking ahead, the future of casinos in Rhode Island appears promising. The state continues to explore opportunities for expansion and innovation within the industry. One such development is the proposed construction of a new casino in Tiverton, which would replace the existing Newport Grand Casino.

Additionally, Rhode Island is keeping a close eye on the evolving landscape of online gambling. With the rise of internet-based gaming platforms, the state is considering the legalization of online casinos to tap into this growing market. This move could further enhance the state’s revenue and provide additional convenience for gamblers.

Q&A

1. Are casinos legal in Rhode Island?

Yes, casinos are legal in Rhode Island. The state has two full-scale casinos, Twin River Casino in Lincoln and Newport Grand Casino in Newport.

2. How do casinos benefit the local economy?

Casinos benefit the local economy in several ways. They create jobs, attract tourists, generate revenue through taxes and fees, and support small businesses.

3. What types of games can be played at Rhode Island’s casinos?

Rhode Island’s casinos offer a variety of games, including slot machines, video poker, blackjack, poker, roulette, and more.

4. How much revenue do Rhode Island’s casinos generate?

In 2019, Rhode Island’s casinos contributed over $300 million in taxes and fees to the state.

5. What is the future of casinos in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island is exploring opportunities for expansion and innovation within the casino industry. This includes the construction of a new casino in Tiverton and the potential legalization of online casinos.

Summary

The rise of casinos in Rhode Island has had a significant impact on the state’s economy. The introduction of full-scale casinos has created jobs, attracted tourists, and generated substantial revenue for the state. Rhode Island’s casinos have become an integral part of the local community, supporting small businesses and funding public services. As the industry continues to evolve, the future looks promising with potential expansions and the exploration of online gambling. Overall, the casino industry has proven to be a valuable asset to Rhode Island’s economy.