The Arizona State Legislature has approved the continuation of the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) for another six years following the signing of Senate Bill 1671 by Governor Hobbs. This legislative action ensures the regulator's ongoing operations while simultaneously increasing funding for problem gambling initiatives.
Under Senate Bill 1847 and the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, the Division of Problem Gambling received expanded expenditure authority. The state budget now allocates $4m for authorized spending, representing a 20% increase compared to the 2026 budget. Additionally, the legislature provided an annual $500,000 expenditure authority to utilize Event Wagering funds specifically for problem gambling support.
Regulatory Continuation and Leadership Response
ADG Director Jackie Johnson noted that the agency was established in 1995. She acknowledged the review conducted by State Senator Shawnna Bolick, the sponsor of the continuation bill. Johnson confirmed that the department will use this period to strengthen consumer protection and integrity measures.
Earlier this period, the ADG reported that tribal gaming contributions to the Arizona Benefits Fund reached $46.2m during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2026. This figure marks a 1.9% increase compared to the same quarter in fiscal year 2025.