Opinion: Tribal gaming creates short term and long term benefits

There has been a lot in the news about Indian gaming establishments across the United States over the last few years.

Much of what's been said about the damaging effects of Indian gaming on local economies was borne out of fear of social decline or the antiquated notion that gambling as a hobby is tied to a lack of strong moral direction in a community.

The same arguments have been made against Indian gaming in Arizona.

While there is undoubtedly a link between some social issues and the ingrained gaming establishments in the Grand Canyon State, there is also strong evidence that the presence of casinos and other gaming establishments is highly beneficial to local economies.