(DES MOINES, Iowa,) -- The Iowa Casino industry grew in 2012 with expenditures over $1 billion for the first time since 2008.

The Des Moines Register reports that industry leaders are pleased, and that the increased spending and revenue are signs that the gambling industry has stabilized after a string of down years.

Gross Casino revenues increased by 3 percent to $1.47 billion, and expenses were up 14 percent, hitting a figure of $1.14 billion.

Iowa has 18 state-regulated casinos, and upgrades are planned for several of them, meaning more amenities like restaurants, hotels, conference centers and golf courses.

 “All of those things really help create jobs and promote tourism,” said Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission Administrator Brian Ohorilko.

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