AGA supports BBB
The American Gaming Association (AGA) posted a controversial statement on X, surprisingly expressing support for the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). The bill passed through Congress on Thursday and awaits President Donald Trump’s signature.
recreational and professional bettors could end up owing tax even after a losing year
The bill has attracted fierce criticism from gamblers for its reduced tax offsets for losses, resulting in situations where both recreational and professional bettors could end up owing tax even after a losing year.
However, the AGA has surprisingly decided to come out in favor of the legislation, which has unsurprisingly resulted in anger and bemusement among prominent gambling figures.
Controversial backing
In the post, the AGA said: “We commend congressional leaders on the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Our industry’s ability to sustain quality jobs and deliver economic benefits is significantly enhanced by the tax policies of the OBBBA that support consumers, encourage business innovation and investment, and strengthen competitiveness.”
In the conclusion of the message, the AGA did allude to perhaps lobbying for the tax changes faced by gamblers to be adjusted, but the tone remained congratulatory. The AGA stated that “We look forward to President Trump’s expected signing and will work closely with Congress in the coming months to address the changes to wagering deduction losses and further modernize the tax code.”
the reaction from gamblers was extremely hostile at the apparent betrayal
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the reaction from gamblers was extremely hostile at the apparent betrayal from an organization that is supposed to have their backs. Seemingly aware of this likely reaction, the AGA decided to not allow comments on the post.
The general mood was summed up by the Las Vegas Locally account:
Possible reprieve
With the mention of working on the tax deductions, and a seemingly bizarre justification for endorsing the bill, it may be that the AGA has decided that it was wise not to put themselves on a collision course with Trump. It was not a popular view, but other users did nonetheless speculate on it.
Hopefully, we’ll get to see at least some progress in that direction. Elsewhere, Democratic congresswoman Dina Titus also pledged to fight in the corner of professional gamblers in opposing the new tax regime.
