Since the US Supreme Court allowed sports betting in 2018, states across the US have been considering legalizing iGaming activities. To date, only six states – New Jersey, West Virginia, Michigan, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut – currently allow for legal access to iGaming products. Of those six states, New Jersey and Delaware were among the first to adopt internet gaming back in 2013. Recently, Connecticut became one of the many states to legalize iGaming. However, four other states are planning to do so shortly as well.
Maryland Has Taken A Progressive Step
Maryland has been a few steps closer to legalizing iGaming since they enacted retail sports betting in December 2021. Despite this, it is still unlikely that iGaming will become legal in Maryland before 2022; however, the process of making it legal should be completed within 2023, as the legislature is working hard to ensure smooth processes.
Currently, seven sportsbook operators are living in the state and their numbers are increasing at a faster pace. As with any commercial gambling expansion, Maryland needs to pass a referendum vote before effective legislation can pass, something which can only be done once certain conditions are met and safety regulations are adhered to.
New York To Introduce Legislation Permitting Online Gambling In 2023
Joseph Addabbo, Senator of New York, will most likely introduce the iGaming legislature in 2023.
Addabbo had originally attempted to introduce the legislation in early 2022 but was asked by committee leaders to present it at a later date. The Racing, Gaming, and Wagering Committee Chairman in the Senate noted there wasn’t enough time remaining that year to debate the bill. He promised to push the process through, stating that mobile sports betting is already benefiting the state.
Illinois Could Pass Legislation Sooner Than Initially Predicted
The Illinois legislature passed a law in 2019 legalizing online sports betting but left online casino gaming out of the bill. Online gambling persists in the state, but no law has been passed to make it official. Though the state may not pass the laws in 2022, they are predicted to do so sooner than anticipated. Sen. Dave Syverson said the chances of these laws passing this year are nil, but they will eventually be approved.
Indiana Has Introduced Two Bills
With the introduction of HB 1337 and HB 1356 in the early part of 2022, Indiana could soon become the 7th state to legalize iGaming in the US. Responsible for introducing these bills are Republicans Ethan Manning, Doug Gutwein, and Alan Morrison.
The proposed bills both focus on adding an 18% tax from gaming revenue. Both bills have been referred to the House Committee on Public Policy where they will need to pass before reaching Governor Eric Holcomb’s desk for signature.
