A wave of legislative activity is sweeping across the United States, signaling a potential shift in how gambling is regulated and offered to citizens. Lawmakers in multiple states are actively filing bills that could dramatically reshape the industry, from online poker to lottery ticket sales.
Virginia is at the forefront of this movement with House Bill 161, a proposal that could authorize and regulate internet gaming under the oversight of the Virginia Lottery Board. The bill outlines a significant financial commitment from operators, requiring a $2 million fee for each online platform, with funds earmarked for start-up costs and the creation of a dedicated gaming commission.
New Jersey is also considering substantial changes. Assembly Bill 6081, initially introduced last November, proposes allowing electronic sales of instant lottery tickets through courier services and establishing a crucial self-exclusion list for those struggling with lottery game addiction.
Florida’s Bill 1164 focuses on refining existing gambling codes, revisiting previously proposed changes that didn’t pass. The bill includes clarifying definitions for terms like “internal gambling” and “internet sports wagering,” and addresses appointments to the Florida Gaming Control Commission.
Indiana is tackling online gambling from multiple angles. House Bill 1078 could empower the lottery commission to offer draw games and eInstant games online, while House Bill 1235 aims to legalize wagering on video gaming terminals in select establishments. A separate amendment to another bill proposes legalizing iGaming and establishing a fund to address problem gambling.
Nebraska is revisiting a bill from last year, Bill 421, which seeks to allow authorized gaming operators to offer sports wagering through online platforms, building on the existing Nebraska Racetrack Gaming Act. This would expand access to sports betting for residents.
New York has introduced two bills with significant implications. Bill 2614, carried over from last year, proposes allowing both interactive gaming and lottery gaming within the state. A more recent bill, 6030, focuses specifically on poker, aiming to classify certain interactive poker games as games of skill rather than chance, with defined safeguards and standards.
Missouri and Mississippi have also filed similar bills, indicating a widespread interest among state legislatures in modernizing and regulating the gambling landscape. These actions suggest a growing recognition of the potential revenue and regulatory benefits of embracing new technologies and expanding access to various forms of gambling.
The flurry of activity across these states demonstrates a clear trend: a re-evaluation of gambling laws to adapt to the evolving digital age and address the needs of both players and regulators. The coming months will be critical as these bills move through the legislative process, potentially reshaping the future of gambling in America.
