Industry News

An innovative plan to tax casinos based on their revenue was unilaterally amended in 2021 which has saved the casinos millions of dollars that would have been earmarked for the Atlantic County tax coffers. The county has sued to recoup those funds and the latest legal battle between the parties will play out this week.

Belmont Park undergoes a $450 million renovation, modernizing facilities by 2026. Upgrades include dorms, medical centers, and enhanced security, aiming to rival global landmarks. Major events relocate temporarily, and Aqueduct Racetrack’s closure signals shifts in New York’s racing landscape.

Virginia legalizes gray machines, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s gambling landscape. With SB 212 awaiting Governor Glenn Youngkin’s signature, the contentious debate surrounding these skill games has intensified. Proponents argue that legalizing gray machines will provide vital revenue streams for small businesses, while opponents express concerns about their potential to exacerbate problem gambling. The bill, co-sponsored by Senators Aaron Rouse and L. Louise Lucas, includes stringent regulations such as a minimum age requirement of 21 and a 25% tax rate on revenues. Despite bipartisan support in the Senate and the House of Delegates, Governor Youngkin’s administration has raised apprehensions about regulatory structures and public safety implications. Digital Wager Wire will continue to monitor this unfolding story as Virginia navigates its new gambling regulations.

Vermont tourism drives mobile sports betting handle with tourists accounting for over 40% of the 52,431 active bettors in January and contributing an average bet size of $37, compared to in-state residents’ $18,

Rhode Island online casinos launch, marking the state as the seventh in the nation to embrace this digital gaming trend in 2024. Spearheaded by Bally’s, this initiative promises significant revenue growth, with projections soaring to $56.6 million by fiscal year 2025.

No Online Casino in New York for 2024 – Despite fervent lobbying efforts, online casino gambling remains absent from New York’s budget. Legislators like State Senator Joe Addabbo hoped for a breakthrough, but with no inclusion in the Senate’s budget or Governor Kathy Hochul’s plans, it’s unlikely to happen soon. However, proponents remain hopeful for future opportunities.

The legal battle over Florida’s mobile sports betting monopoly continues as the Seminole Tribe faces opposition from West Flagler Associates (WFA). WFA alleges the compact between the tribe and Florida violates gaming laws. The case has reached SCOTUS, which extended the DOI’s response deadline. Meanwhile, sports betting revenue flows into Florida’s coffers, with projections estimating significant gains in the coming years.

Minnesota faces hurdles in passing mobile sports betting legislation, with recent amendments, including a ban on in-game betting, creating controversy. The state’s horse racing tracks and Native American tribes must find common ground for progress amid concerns and potential negative consequences.

Senate Bill 2780 has been proposed to amend the state constitution that would require coastal casino projects to be mandated to secure a tidelands lease from the Secretary of State due to a chaotic and confusing ruling for a casino in Biloxi.