NCLGS Invites Public Feedback on Proposed iGaming Bill

In a groundbreaking move, close to 40 US states now offer legal sports betting, a testament to the rapid expansion following the downfall of PASPA roughly six years ago. While sports betting has surged both in popularity and acceptance, its digital cousin, online gambling, hasn’t quite mirrored this growth. Presently, only seven US states have embraced legal online gambling, a phenomenon yet to gain the same widespread traction. However, recent developments suggest this might change, thanks to the National Council of Legislators From Gaming States (NCLGS). The Council has released a draft proposal titled the Modern Internet Gaming Act. This comprehensive draft, addressing pivotal issues and setting out rigorous online gambling regulations, is open for public comment until the end of the year.

The Council has released a draft proposal titled the Modern Internet Gaming Act. This comprehensive draft, addressing pivotal issues and setting out rigorous online gambling regulations, is open for public comment until the end of the year.

The unveiling of this iGaming draft preceded the Council’s 2024 Winter Meeting in New Orleans, where iGaming unsurprisingly dominated the agenda. One major point of debate during the meeting, as highlighted by Casino Reports, was the potential cannibalization of retail casinos by online gambling. With smartphones making it easier for users to register and bet online, this concern isn’t baseless. Critics argue that the advent of online gambling could significantly dent the revenues of traditional, land-based casinos. Adding another layer to the debate, Mark Stewart from the Cordish Companies stressed the social repercussions, predicting severe social and economic consequences should online gambling become mainstream.