Wyoming Legislator Eyes Online Casino Legalization

Imagine Wyoming legalizing online casinos—a move that could revolutionize the state’s gaming landscape. Representative Robert Davis is hopeful that a statewide gaming study will build the momentum needed to introduce and pass online casino legislation in 2025. Intrigued to learn how this study could be the game-changer for Wyoming’s gambling market? Read on to explore the intricacies of this initiative and its potential impact.

Wyoming Considers Online Casino Legalization as Statewide Study May Influence 2025 Legislation

Wyoming may soon be on the path to legalizing online casinos. State Representative Robert Davis has been advocating for online casino legislation, and he believes that the upcoming statewide gaming study could provide the push needed to make it a reality by 2025.

This week, the Wyoming Gaming Commission confirmed that it had contracted Spectrum Gaming Group to conduct an extensive study examining the state’s gaming future. This study is crucial, as it aims to provide insights and recommendations that could shape Wyoming’s gambling landscape for years to come.

A Statewide Study to Assess Wyoming’s Gaming Future

The legislature had requested a comprehensive gaming study through the general appropriations bill, with the Joint Appropriations Committee outlining key topics to investigate. These include guidance on interactive gaming, revenue projections, and best practices for an effective regulatory framework.

Additionally, the study will delve into various gaming sectors in Wyoming, including historic horse racing, skill-based games, and online sports wagering. By taking a holistic approach, the study aims to understand the scope of gaming activities already happening in Wyoming and explore the potential benefits of regulation.

Rep. Davis sees this study as the cornerstone of future efforts to introduce and pass online casino legislation. “I think it’s good we’re doing this,” he told PlayUSA, adding, “They’ll be surprised by what the study will yield, especially regarding the revenue we can generate by regulating something that’s already occurring.”

The 2023 Legislative Setback and Lessons Learned

Earlier this year, Davis took the first step towards online casino legalization by filing House Bill 120 (HB120). However, in a short, budget-focused session, the bill faced a significant hurdle. It required a two-thirds vote from the 42 House members to secure a committee assignment. Unfortunately, the House rejected the bill by a 25-36-1 vote.

Despite the setback, Davis remains undeterred. The 2023 bill was modeled after Wyoming’s successful online sports betting law, which passed in 2021. It proposed a $100,000 initial licensing fee, renewable for $50,000 every five years, and set a 10% tax rate, similar to sports betting regulations. It also included provisions for $300,000 towards problem gambling prevention and treatment.

The bill’s defeat highlighted the need for more robust data and insights to convince lawmakers. Davis hopes that the Spectrum Gaming Group’s study will offer the concrete evidence required to rally legislative support.

How the Study Could Influence 2025 Legislation

The study’s outcome will have a significant impact on whether Wyoming proceeds with online casino legalization in 2025. The commission has requested an initial draft by early November, which would give legislators ample time to review findings and consider them during the upcoming session.

“The study’s findings will reveal if there’s an appetite for legalizing online casinos,” Davis explained. He plans to wait for the study results before deciding to refile his bill. If the data suggests that online gambling is already occurring illegally, Davis believes it will provide a strong argument for legalizing and regulating the industry.

“My hope is the study shows to what degree it is occurring in Wyoming illegally,” Davis stated. “The best course of action for something happening illegally is to legalize it and protect those involved.”

The Timeline and Path Forward

The Wyoming Gaming Commission expects an initial draft of the study in early November. Legislators can begin pre-filing bills for the next session on November 6. The legislative session will run from January 14 to March 7, providing a window for Davis to rally support if the study results favor legalization.

Unlike the previous session, passing the bill in 2025 would require only a simple majority vote, making it more achievable if there’s evidence of economic and regulatory benefits. Davis is optimistic that, with the right data, the push for a regulated online casino market could finally gain traction.

The statewide gaming study commissioned by the Wyoming Gaming Commission could be the key to unlocking online casino legalization in Wyoming. Representative Robert Davis believes that the study’s findings will surprise lawmakers by revealing the potential revenue and the extent of unregulated gambling already taking place. By understanding these factors, Wyoming has the opportunity to shape a regulated gaming environment that not only generates tax revenue but also protects its residents. As the legislative session approaches, all eyes will be on the study’s results and their potential to transform Wyoming’s gambling landscape.