News State Lawmakers Show Interest in Legalizing Online Casinos

[Bawse]

Lawmakers in Massachusetts, Ohio, and Virginia are showing interest in legalizing online casinos as their upcoming legislative sessions approach.

During a recent iDevelopment & Economic Association conference, representatives from all three states discussed the potential for iGaming expansion, with tax revenue and consumer protection among the issues being considered.

Massachusetts​

Massachusetts Rep. David Muradian said online casino tax revenue could help the state financially while also providing consumers with a regulated and safer option. Lawmakers previously introduced an iGaming bill, but it was shelved while the state studied the potential effects of an online casino market.

Ohio​

Ohio Rep. Brian Stewart highlighted the potential tax revenue from legalization. State studies have estimated that online casinos could generate approximately $400 million in additional tax revenue. Stewart suggested that the money could potentially be used to reduce or eliminate the state's income tax.

Ohio already has legal sports betting, although Gov. Mike DeWine has opposed further gambling expansion and previously indicated he would veto future online casino legislation. His term ends in January 2027, which could change the political landscape around the issue.

Virginia​

Virginia Sen. Jeremy McPike expressed more caution about online casino legalization. His primary concern is whether online casinos could take revenue away from the state's newer land-based casino industry. He referred to the possibility of the overall gaming market becoming saturated.

With several states now looking at iGaming as a potential source of tax revenue, it will be interesting to see whether more states move toward regulated online casinos in the coming years.

Source: https://www.cardplayer.com/poker-ne...ers-express-desire-to-legalize-online-casinos