Report: Casinos generated $125 billion in spending in ’10

U.S. casinos and the industries that depend on them made a $125 billion economic splash in 2010 -- equal to
1 percent of U.S. gross domestic product.

That's according to a new study by the American Gaming Association, which counted direct and indirect spending.

"There is no doubt the commercial casino industry is a significant and vital part of our nation's economy," President and CEO Frank J. Fahrenkopf Jr., said in a statement. "The industry generates and supports economic activity that stretches far beyond the communities that host casinos."

The report shows 566 casinos in 22 states supported about $125 billion in spending and 820,000 U.S. jobs in 2010.

Direct consumer casino spending accounts for about 350,000 jobs and $50 billion. About one-third of the money came from non-gambling sources.

Indirect spending generated about 470,000 jobs and $76 billion.

Taxes paid directly by the industry in 2010 totaled nearly $16 billion; $25 billion when indirect activity is counted.