(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana's new electronic pull tab machines have generated nearly $76 million in gross revenue in just the first three months of operation, giving veterans and fraternal organizations a major new fundraising tool.
The Indiana Capital Chronicle says Indiana Gaming Commission figures show e-tabs brought in about $75.6 million since launching Dec. 30, when the state officially allowed the devices to begin operating.
The new law expanded charitable gaming options for groups that had previously relied on traditional paper pull tabs, bingo, raffles and similar games.
Since the launch, 518 of Indiana's 581 eligible organizations have adopted e-tabs, installing nearly 2,800 machines statewide.
Veterans organizations say the impact has been immediate.
The Indiana Capital Chronicle also reports some American Legion posts that were facing serious financial strain have already seen dramatic turnarounds, with some locations stabilizing within 30 days of installing the machines.
American Legion leaders say the new revenue is helping support building repairs, upgrades and expanded community giving, including donations to veterans services, youth sports, fire departments and Shop-with-a-Cop programs.
Some of the proceeds also flow to the companies operating the devices, with Arrow International, Grover Gaming and J&J Gaming currently licensed to support e-tab operations in Indiana.
The full long-term state tax impact is still unclear.
The Indiana Capital Chronicle reports it may take up to a year before state officials can fully assess the tax and licensing revenue generated by the new gaming option.
Still, the early numbers point to one of the fastest-growing charitable gaming rollouts Indiana has seen in recent years.