When 2017 began, it seemed that the potential was there for a least one state to legalize online poker and casino gaming. Over the past few months, we have watched as several states in the US have considered legalization of iGaming in some form or fashion. As the year is coming to an end, which states remain with the ability to become the next to offer online gaming for real money.
The state with the highest possibility to pass online gaming legislation is Pennsylvania. Over the past year, lawmakers have tried to come up with a budget package that everyone can agree on and that includes online gambling as well as other gaming expansions. Currently, a framework for a budget has been created and the legislature should be finishing up a gaming bill so that the state is ready to fill the budget gap with money created from the new industry. Only time will tell if the state will make their move this year or if we will have to wait until 2018 to see legislation move forward.
New Hampshire is also still in the running to pass online gambling legislation. Back in the summer months, lawmakers decided to legalize online lottery ticket sales so it is clear online gaming is accepted by lawmakers. A shell bill is still under consideration in the state that involves online gaming and there is still time to see the bill amended and passed during this current session. If it moves forward, the bill could be up for a vote by lawmakers in the future.
In Illinois, lawmakers are currently in a veto session that ends tomorrow with another session set for early November. During the veto session, lawmakers will be taking a look at measures that were vetoed by the governor but can also look at other bills which could include three options still on the table that include online gaming language.
It will be interesting to watch over the next few months to see if either of these states can pass or come closer to passing online gambling legislation.
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