Online Gambling in the United States
The debate over legalizing online gambling in the United States continues to rage, with a variety of issues to contend with. The states with the most favorable gambling regulations are New Jersey, New Hampshire, Nevada, and Massachusetts. Despite all of these issues, it is hard to say when the industry will become legal in the United States. In the meantime, it will likely continue to expand as state and local governments consider the potential financial benefits of online gambling.
Today’s online gambling market is mature, with several domestic and international players operating in the country. The leading players include 888 Holdings PLC, William Hill PLC, Eldorado Resorts Inc., MGM Resorts International, and Cherry Gold Casino. However, the major players have been spending a lot of money on mergers and acquisitions, brand portfolios, and online games.
In the state of Kentucky, a sports betting bill passed the House, but failed to pass the Senate. In Missouri, a bill that would legalize online sports betting and retail betting through six professional sports teams and 13 casinos passed the House on March 24. The legislation would allow for the opening of up to 39 online sportsbooks, with a tax rate of eight percent. The Kansas bill is also a major step toward legalizing sports betting in the United States.
Online Gambling in the United States in 2022
If the Supreme Court rules in favor of online gambling in the United States, it will be legal everywhere. The Wire Act is the primary law that governs online gambling, but it was enacted decades before the Internet came into existence. Fortunately, it was recently overturned by the US Supreme Court, and states are free to pass legislation to legalize the activity. There is currently no federal ban on online sports betting, but the future is uncertain.
Legal online sports betting will be available to Arizona residents in September 2021. The New Tribal-State Gaming Compact signed in early 2021 has made it legal for online sports betting and mobile wagering in Arizona. While this legislation does not permit online casino gaming or poker, it will allow for in-stadium sports betting in the state. It also allows for fantasy sports betting through mobile applications. As of February 2022, more states will be joining the race to legalize online sports betting.
Sports betting in Montana may not be legal for years, but it will be possible in the future. Montana’s legal sports betting app will be run by the same company that manages the state’s lottery. The state’s small population and lack of competition could jeopardize competitive prices. Nevada, on the other hand, remains the gold standard for in-person betting, but still isn’t ready for online wagering.