Gambling in the USA
Video Gambling Magnate Rick Heidner Sues Illinois Gaming Board
Video gambling magnate Rick Heidner has filed a $4 million lawsuit against the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB).
Heidner, who was named in a federal search warrant during an FBI raid of former state Sen. Martin Sandoval’s office in September, alleges in a lawsuit filed to the Illinois Court of Claims that a gaming board employee intentionally and without authorisation disclosed sensitive financial information to three federal agencies.
“Upon information and belief, the IGB employee made these disclosures to fuel—or at least in response to—the negative media coverage the IGB helped generate against Mr. Heidner and Gold Rush,” the complaint reads.
The suit also alleges the gaming board did not immediately inform Heidner of the breach, which they are required to do under Illinois law. The leak was only discovered a month later, after Heidner filed a Freedom of Information Act request for all correspondences between the gaming board and the Tribune, according to the suit.
Heidner is requesting the maximum allowable damages of $2 million each for himself and his company over the alleged leak of personal information.
The leaked information included Heidner’s financial data, personal bank records, his Social Security number, real estate holdings, mortgages and liens and other sensitive records, according to the suit.
Workers at Rio Hotel and Casino, represented by Teamsters Local 986, have overwhelmingly ratified a strong four-year collective bargaining agreement. The group of 62 front desk workers, laborers, warehouse workers, and valet attendants secured higher wages, improved benefits, and stronger workplace protections.
“Our members stood strong, and management had no other choice but to deliver. This win belongs to every worker who refused to be ignored, and it proves that when we fight as one, we secure real improvements,” said Tim Vera, President of Local 986.
The four-year deal delivers a 15% wage increase, improved vacation policies, and continued coverage under the Teamsters Health and Welfare plan. The contract also includes job protections against technology and an option for workers to enroll into the Teamsters 401(k) plan.
“All we asked for was a fair contract that allows us to do our job without worrying. We didn’t want to strike, but we were ready if it came to that. Now we can come to work knowing that management listened and that our labor is respected,” said Malinda Zarcone, a front desk worker and steward at Local 986.
The agreement was reached after workers voted to authorize a strike on Nov. 10 over unfair labor practices. The vote followed nearly two years of stalled negotiations by Dreamscape, the property’s owner.
“Management dragged out negotiations and our members held them accountable. We don’t tolerate delays and disrespect toward our members. We’re always prepared to take action and win,” said Tommy Blitsch, Director of the Teamsters Convention, Trade Show, and Casino Division.
The post Teamsters at Rio Hotel Ratify Strong Contract, Avert Strike appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.
Gambling in the USA
MONOPOLY Table Games Progressive from Galaxy Gaming debuts at the Plaza Hotel & Casino
MONOPOLY Table Games Progressive brings the beloved classic to life in the casino pit, transforming every round into a dynamic and rewarding experience. Mr. Monopoly is the star of the show, randomly selecting hands and providing exciting multipliers up to 10x, keeping players engaged and on the edge of their seats.
Details
Designed to deliver high energy and volatility without compromising house edge, the MONOPOLY Table Games Progressive is unlike anything the industry has seen. With nostalgic animations and familiar visuals, this theme adds a fresh layer of excitement to the table—and best of all, it’s compatible with nearly any Galaxy Gaming progressive.
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The post MONOPOLY Table Games Progressive from Galaxy Gaming debuts at the Plaza Hotel & Casino appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.
Arizona Benefits Fund
Arizona Department of Gaming Reports $44.9 Million in Tribal Gaming Contributions for Q2 FY 2026
The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) has officially announced a total of $44,891,270 in tribal gaming contributions to the Arizona Benefits Fund for the second quarter of Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. This performance marks an approximate 5.6 percent increase compared to the same period in FY 2025, signaling continued strength in the state’s tribal gaming sector.
These contributions are vital to the state’s infrastructure, supporting everything from classroom improvements to emergency medical services.
“The financial support that tribal gaming provides the state of Arizona continues to power local and statewide needs that are vital to healthy and safe communities,” said Jackie Johnson, Director of the ADG. “With nearly $45 million in tribal gaming contributions in the most recent period, the Department is proud to ensure the continuation of important revenue streams that positively impact Arizonans.”
Where the Money Goes: The Arizona Benefits Fund
Under the Arizona Tribal-State Gaming Compact, 88 percent of all tribal gaming contributions are directed into the Arizona Benefits Fund. This revenue is strictly allocated to high-priority state initiatives.
The Q2 FY 2026 distribution breakdown is as follows:
| Fund Category | Contribution Amount |
| Instructional Improvement Fund (Education) | $22,373,810 |
| Trauma and Emergency Services Fund | $11,186,905 |
| ADG Operating Costs | $4,040,214 |
| Arizona Wildlife Conservation Fund | $3,196,258 |
| State Tourism Fund | $3,196,258 |
| Problem Gambling Education & Treatment | $897,825 |
| Total to Arizona Benefits Fund | $44,891,270 |
Local Community Impact
Beyond the state-level funds, the remaining 12 percent of tribal contributions are distributed directly by the tribes to specific cities, towns, and counties. these funds are often used for local community services and public safety programs.
Since FY 2004, cumulative contributions from Arizona’s tribes have surpassed $2.5 billion, demonstrating the long-term economic impact of the partnership between the state and its 22 federally recognized tribes.
Regulatory Oversight and Growth
Currently, the ADG regulates 26 Class III casinos across the state in close partnership with tribal authorities. This regulatory framework ensures the integrity of the games while maximizing the benefits delivered to the public.
For those interested in exploring historical data, the ADG maintains a comprehensive archive of cumulative tribal gaming contributions by year.
To learn more about the current landscape of gaming in the state, visit the official Tribal Gaming webpage.
The post Arizona Department of Gaming Reports $44.9 Million in Tribal Gaming Contributions for Q2 FY 2026 appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
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