Black Hawk, a city in Colorado has joined the National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG), reflecting the local government’s firm opposition to online casinos. Black Hawk is notably the first municipality to join the new coalition.

NAAiG Opposes the Expansion of Online Casinos

The NAAiG, for context, is a coalition of local businesses, industry veterans, community advocates and concerned citizens who wish to protect their communities from the dangers associated with online gaming. The organization was founded to address the threat of the growing industry and preserve local jobs and economic stability across America.

The NAAiG is not fundamentally opposed to gaming. On the contrary, the organization supports in-person, regulated gaming, which prioritizes the safety and well-being of communities. However, the organization believes that online casinos are much more dangerous and do not make the same contributions to local communities.

By promoting responsible, community-focused gaming, we help create a stronger, more resilient future for all.
NAAiG statement

The City Did Not Need Much Convincing

According to a report by The Mountain Ear, the Black Hawk City Council didn’t need much convincing and quickly became the first municipality to join the coalition. This followed a presentation by Jason Gumer, vice chair of the NAAiG and executive vice president and general counsel for Monarch Casino.

Despite not considering himself to be a great public speaker, Gumer’s acumen as an orator was sufficient to convince the Black Hawk City Council of the threats iGaming poses to Colorado’s land-based gaming sector, jobs and public health.

As of now, there are only seven states in the United States that allow this [iGaming], but Europe has had it for a while. We look at what’s happening in England, and they introduced [iGaming] as a savior for governments and for tax revenue… but nothing’s been further from the truth.
Jason Gumer, vice chair, NAAiG

Gumer further warned that if iGaming comes to Colorado, the state will never see another brick-and-mortar casino opened ever again. This means that investments from casino companies will cease, hurting the economy.

Colorado Stands to Lose a Lot if iGaming Comes

A study commissioned by the NAAiG painted a grim picture of what will happen to Colorado should it legalize iGaming. Compiled by The Innovation Group, the study projected that 2,050 jobs will be lost, including 1,200 direct jobs in mountain towns.

In addition to that, the state stands to lose up to $129 million a year in lost labor income, as well as $520 million in lost economic output.

Last but not least, Colorado will suffer $830 million in increased social costs due to gambling addiction and related problems.

Gumer emphasized that online gambling doesn’t support jobs. Instead, it channels profits out of state.

Gumer’s Points Appealed to the City Council

Earlier this year, opponents of iGaming united to push back against an iGaming bill. Although opponents of online casinos succeeded in stopping the measure, Gumer is certain that it will return.

Gumer rejected one of the most common arguments of iGaming’s proponents, which is that it should be allowed simply because some people already do it illegally. He said that this line of thinking sounds “crazy” to him.

Black Hawk mayor David Spellman agreed with Gumer’s points. He shuddered to imagine people gambling at work if iGaming becomes legal.

As a result, the Black Hawk City Council vowed to join the NAAiG.