×
top-section
trump casinos

President Trump engages with sports betting industry leaders to discuss tax reform priorities

On January 25, 2025, President Donald Trump visited the Circa Resort and Casino in Las Vegas to meet with key figures in the sports betting industry. Hosted by Circa CEO Derek Stevens, the discussion centered on tax reform priorities affecting the gaming sector.

A key issue was the proposed adjustment of the slot tax threshold. Currently, slot winnings of $1,200 or more require a W-2G tax form. Industry leaders are pushing to raise this threshold to $5,000, citing inflation and the need to ease administrative burdens.

Another major topic was the possible removal of the federal excise tax on sports betting. At present, all legal sports wagers are subject to a 0.25% tax, along with a $50 annual fee for each employee handling bets. The American Gaming Association (AGA) contends that this tax places an undue financial strain on legal operators, making it harder to compete with illegal betting markets.

Bill Miller, President and CEO of the AGA, praised the meeting, emphasizing that it “clearly demonstrates the president’s commitment to a tax code that promotes job creation and allows workers to retain more of their earnings.”

This gathering highlights the administration’s continued engagement with the gaming industry, working to refine tax policies that influence its growth and long-term viability.