State revenue sharing from tribal casinos was up 2.7 percent in the last quarter of 2013. 

Assistant Gaming Director Rick Medina says while the money is just a small part of what is lost at the tribal casinos, it represents vital spending for the state of Arizona.

“That money goes to benefit trauma and emergency services, the education fund, Arizona wildlife conservation, the state tourism program, and problem gambling services for people that have issues with their gaming,” Medina said.

He says the $13.5 million the tribes contributed to the state last quarter represents up to 8 percent of total tribal casino revenues.