A new report shows that 2011 revenue from Native American casinos in New Mexico are steadily recovering from the recession. KUNM's Carrie Jung has more.
Despite a sluggish economy, gaming revenue at New Mexico's Indian Gaming facilities is on the rise according to Casino City's latest Indian Gaming Industry Report.
The study shows that revenue grew by more than 2% in 2011, up from just 0.4% in 2010.
Dr. Alan Meister, the author of the report, says, after two straight years of growth, New Mexico's gaming revenue has now exceeded pre recession levels.
"New Mexico is sort of following that nationwide trend. Where it was growing but at slower rates prior to the recession. And then took the dip in 2009 as a result of the recession. And then it started to show some recovery and show some positive growth afterwards."
Meister also says there was a 4% decrease in the presence of table games at state facilities and a 2% increase in slot machines during the same time period.